PLAMWASSA, PLATEAU STATE GOVERNMENT TO RESTORE BOREHOLES IN JOS SOUTH AND JOS NORTH.
Daju Payi

Relief is on the way for residents of Jos South and Jos North Local Government Areas as the Plateau State Government, under the leadership of Governor Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has flagged off a major borehole rehabilitation project aimed at addressing water scarcity in the region.
The initiative, which was officially launched by the Commissioner for Water Resources and Energy, Hon. Bashir Lawandi Datti, on behalf of the Governor, is being implemented in collaboration with the Plateau Municipal Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (PLAMWASSA) and the Transfer of Appreciate Sustainable Technology Expertise (TASTE-Nigeria). The project is set to rehabilitate 60 solar-powered boreholes and 300 hand-pump boreholes across the two local government areas.
Speaking at the flag-off ceremony held at Angwan Primary School, Tudun Wada, Jos South, Hon. Bashir Datti reaffirmed the state government's commitment to improving water supply, sanitation, and public health. He emphasized that providing potable water remains one of Governor Mutfwang's top priorities, as it plays a crucial role in the cultural, social, and economic development of the communities.
Hon. Datti expressed appreciation to TASTE-Nigeria for its partnership and urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure the successful implementation and sustainability of the project.

In his remarks, Engr. Jonathan Malann, Project Coordinator of SURWASH, who represented the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, noted that the initiative is expected to bring a lasting solution to water challenges in Angwan Primary and surrounding communities.
Engr. Godfrey Dashuer, General Manager of the Plateau Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (PRUWASA), appealed to community members to take ownership of the facilities and ensure their proper management for long-term benefits.

Speaking on behalf of the benefitting LGAs, the Chairman of Jos North, Hon. John Kyoroh Christopher, commended the state government for prioritizing water access and thanked stakeholders for their cooperation. He emphasized that the intervention would significantly improve the lives of residents who have long suffered from water shortages.
Representing the women in the community, Mary Ethel expressed gratitude for the initiative, stating that women have borne the brunt of water scarcity for years. She described the project as a timely intervention that would alleviate their struggles.

Community leader Da Peter Nyam also conveyed appreciation on behalf of the residents, praying for the success of the administration and the continuity of such developmental projects.

The General Manager of PLAMWASSA, Jelkyes Jacob Dakat, noted that the rehabilitation effort was in response to the governor’s directive to urgently address water shortages in Jos South and Jos North. He encouraged residents to make the best use of the facilities.

Concluding the event, Country Director of TASTE-Nigeria, Nuhu Yakubu, assured that work would commence immediately and be completed within the next two to three weeks.

With this initiative, residents of Jos South and Jos North can look forward to improved access to clean water, a development that will enhance hygiene, reduce waterborne diseases, and contribute to the overall well-being of the communities.