From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has reiterated its commitment to urgently restore adequate potable water supply to residents following the rupture of a major water pipeline.
The government assured residents of Sokoto metropolis and surrounding areas of its determination to provide safe drinking water despite the disruption caused by the incident.
The State Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi Iya, the Iyan Sokoto, gave the assurance on Wednesday during an inspection visit to the damaged pipeline in the Sokoto River.
The commissioner led a high-powered technical team from the ministry and the Sokoto State Water Board to assess the extent of the damage.
The affected pipeline supplies raw water from the Kware Water Intake to the New Extension Water Treatment Plant in Sokoto.
The rupture, which occurred on Sunday night following heavy rainfall, disrupted water supply across Sokoto metropolis and its environs.
Speaking after the inspection, Alhaji Aminu Dodo Iya said the damaged pipes were submerged, while some of their accessories were washed away.
He explained that the development had affected the pumping of potable water to residents and caused serious setbacks to the operations of the State Water Board.
“The state government is as concerned as the management and staff of the water board, who have been working round the clock to resolve the situation.
“We have swung into action and are urgently working on an alternative source to divert the pipeline and restore adequate water supply to the people,” he said.
The commissioner noted that repair efforts are ongoing but completion has been delayed due to the high water level and heavy sand deposits caused by the rains.
He added that the government had made provisions in the 2026 budget to replace old equipment, accessories, and other facilities inherited by the water board.
The Iyan Sokoto commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto for prioritising water supply under his 9-Point Smart Agenda.
He also praised the management and staff of the State Water Board for their commitment and resilience in addressing the challenge.
Meanwhile, the General Manager of the Sokoto State Water Board, Engr. Aminu Haruna Mika’ilu, said technical teams were immediately deployed to the affected area and repair work had commenced.
He added that water tankers had been deployed to provide services to critical facilities, including hospitals and public institutions, pending the restoration of normal supply.
“Efforts are underway to fix this problem so that we can continue providing the people of our state with clean drinking water,” he said.
Engr. Mika’ilu assured residents that the incident would further strengthen the board’s commitment to improving infrastructure, maintenance, and service delivery.
He appealed for patience and understanding while repair works continue, urging residents to store water where possible and follow official updates from the Water Board.