From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has signed a N31bn contract agreement with Mutual Commitment Company (MCC) for the completion of the long-delayed Zobe Water Supply Project (Phase 1B).
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda signed on behalf of the state government, while the Group Managing Director of the company, Mr. Liu Zhaolong, signed for MCC. The signing was followed by a groundbreaking ceremony at the Kafin Soli Booster Station on Wednesday.
Describing the development as “a promise finally fulfilled,” Governor Radda said although the Zobe Dam was completed in 1983, its full potential had remained untapped for more than four decades.
“This project is not just about pipes and pumps; it’s about life, health, and dignity,” the governor said.
The Zobe Phase 1B project is expected to deliver potable water to several communities, including Karofi-Radda, Kafin Soli, Tafashiya, Kankia, Koda-Charanchi, Yarranda, Tashar Albasa, Are-Cika Koshi, Faduma, Tudun Kaadir, Rijiya Mai Siminti, Lambar Rimi, Abukur, Tashar Bala, and Batagarawa.
Radda assured that his administration would ensure transparency, strict supervision, and value-for-money throughout the execution of the contract. He added that the water scheme aligns with ongoing reforms under the World Bank-supported SURWASH programme, which is expanding WASH access across eight local government areas.
The governor also disclosed that rehabilitation works were ongoing at the Ajiwa, Danja, and Sabuwa dams to strengthen water security across the state. He urged MCC to deliver the project “with speed, excellence and integrity.”
Earlier, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr. Bishir Gambo Saulawa, described the project as a major milestone in the administration’s commitment to ensuring safe, potable water for residents in Dutsin-Ma, Kankia, Charanchi, Batagarawa and Katsina LGAs. He noted that the governor had demonstrated that access to clean water is a right, not a privilege.
“Waterborne diseases will reduce, sanitation will improve, and overall quality of life will rise,” he said.
The Managing Director of the Katsina State Water Board, Engr. Tukur Tinglin, explained that Phase 1A of the Zobe project — the treatment plant — was completed in July 2022 and currently produces 40 to 45 million litres of water daily, far below the 130 million-litre requirement of Katsina metropolis.
“That is why Phase 1B is so critical,” he said. “It extends the distribution network to homes, schools, and businesses, turning 40 years of waiting into real progress.”
The MCC Group Managing Director, Mr. Liu Zhaolong, praised the governor for reviving the project after decades of stagnation. He said the improved water access would enhance agriculture and boost local trade, adding that MCC would complete the project within one year while training local engineers in water system maintenance.
The District Head of Dutsin-Ma and Yandakan Katsina, Alhaji Sada Mohammed Sada, speaking on behalf of five district heads, described the project as the fulfilment of a long-awaited dream. Former military administrator, Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (retd.), also applauded the initiative.
Chairman of Kankia Local Government, Hon. Lawal Abdullahi, who delivered the vote of thanks, commended Governor Radda’s “practical leadership” and assured continued community support for the project.
