Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the newly commissioned Greater Abuja Water Supply Network as a clear demonstration of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises practical projects that directly benefit Nigerians in their daily lives.
Speaking on Monday at the official commissioning of the project—one of several initiatives by the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to mark the second anniversary of his administration—President Tinubu said the water project symbolises a transformative effort to provide safe, sustainable, and adequate water for households, institutions, and communities across Abuja.
“Water is life. It is not a luxury but a basic human right and a foundation for public health, urban development, and economic growth,” he stated.
The President praised the Federal Capital Territory Administration, led by Minister Nyesom Wike, as well as all stakeholders for their commitment to delivering the project. He described the water infrastructure not only as a technical success but also a moral achievement, as it ensures that every part of Abuja benefits from national development.
“When we speak of the Renewed Hope Agenda, we refer to practical, people-centred projects that enhance the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians. Access to water for drinking, cleaning, agriculture, and construction is essential. These are the real projects that matter, yet we often take them for granted,” Tinubu said.
He added that the project lays the foundation for healthier families, stronger communities, and a more productive capital city.
President Tinubu also extended his gratitude to international development partners, particularly the Chinese Government and CGC Nigeria Limited, for their collaboration in bringing the project to fruition. “This project shows that partnerships grounded in mutual respect and shared prosperity can deliver meaningful results,” he remarked.
He called on Abuja residents to protect the new infrastructure: “As we inaugurate this vital project, I urge all residents and stakeholders to safeguard this investment, use the water wisely, and work with the government to ensure its sustainability.”
In his remarks, Minister Nyesom Wike thanked President Tinubu for his unwavering support and hands-on involvement in the capital’s development, noting that the inauguration was the fourth project commissioning in a series of events marking the administration’s anniversary.
Recalling his early discussions with President Tinubu, Wike said: “When you assumed office, you called me to ask about the state of Abuja’s infrastructure. You questioned why the mass transit train wasn’t operational and emphasised that both rail and water supply systems needed urgent attention.”
Wike explained that the Greater Abuja Water Supply Network was initially awarded in 2017 at a cost of $470 million, under a tripartite funding arrangement comprising 85% financing from the Chinese Government, and 15% jointly from the Federal Government and the FCT Administration.
Highlighting efforts to extend water access to underserved areas, Wike revealed that during the President’s visit to China last year, an agreement was signed with CGC to expand water infrastructure to rural communities such as Bwari, Kuje, and Karu.
