By Mu’awuya Bala Idris, Katsina
The Katsina State Government has signed a ₦31 billion contract agreement with Mutual Commitment Company (MCC) Limited for the completion of the long-awaited Zobe Water Supply Project (Phase 1B) — a landmark step toward achieving universal access to clean water across the state.
Governor Dikko Umar Radda signed on behalf of the state government, while Mr. Liu Zhaolong, Group Managing Director of MCC, signed for the company.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony held at the Kafin Soli Booster Station, Governor Radda described the project as a “promise finally fulfilled,” noting that although the Zobe Dam was completed in 1983, its vast potential to serve millions of Katsina residents had remained largely untapped for decades.
“This project is not just about pipes and pumps; it’s about life, health, and dignity,” Governor Radda declared.
The Zobe Phase 1B Project is designed to deliver potable water to multiple 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, among others.
Governor Radda reaffirmed that his administration will ensure strict supervision and transparency throughout the implementation process to guarantee value for money and quality delivery.
He emphasized that the project aligns with the state’s participation in the World Bank-supported Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, which is currently expanding access to clean water in eight local government areas of Katsina State.
The Governor further disclosed that rehabilitation works are ongoing at Ajiwa, Danja, and Sabuwa Dams as part of broader efforts to strengthen water security and resilience across the state.
“We are determined to provide lasting solutions to water challenges in Katsina. I urge MCC to deliver this project with speed, excellence, and integrity,” the Governor stated.
Earlier in his address, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr. Bishir Gambo Saulawa, described the flag-off as a major milestone in Governor Radda’s mission to provide safe and reliable water for residents of Dutsin-Ma, Kankia, Charanchi, Batagarawa, and Katsina Local Government Areas.
“This project reflects Governor Radda’s belief that access to clean water is a right, not a privilege,” Dr. Saulawa said, commending the Governor’s people-centered leadership and his transition from planning to visible, life-changing results.
He added that the project would significantly reduce waterborne diseases, improve sanitation, and enhance citizens’ quality of life.
In his technical remarks, the Managing Director of Katsina State Water Board, Engr. Tukur Tinglin, explained that the Zobe Dam was originally designed to supply nearly half of Katsina’s daily water demand but had remained underutilized for decades.
He noted that Phase 1A, which involved the construction of the treatment plant, was completed in July 2022 and currently produces 40–45 million litres per day, while the Katsina metropolis alone requires over 130 million litres daily.
“That is why Phase 1B is so critical,” Engr. Tinglin stated. “It will extend the distribution network to homes, schools, and businesses — transforming forty years of waiting into a new era of progress and development.”
In his remarks, Mr. Liu Zhaolong, Group Managing Director of MCC Limited, lauded Governor Radda’s vision and determination to revive the Zobe Project and make it a reality after decades of delay.
He assured that MCC would complete the project within one year, adhering to the highest engineering standards while also training local engineers in water management and maintenance.
“This project will not only bring clean water but also boost agricultural activities, support local trade, and improve livelihoods,” Mr. Liu affirmed.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the District Head of Dutsin-Ma and Yandakan Katsina, Alhaji Sada Mohammed Sada, representing the five benefiting district heads, and Col. Abdulmumini Aminu (Rtd.), both of whom described the initiative as the fulfillment of a long-awaited dream for the people of Katsina.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Chairman of Kankia Local Government, Hon. Lawal Abdullahi, expressed gratitude on behalf of all five benefiting council chairmen, commending Governor Radda for his dedication, foresight, and practical leadership.
The signing of the ₦31 billion Zobe Water Project marks a new chapter in Katsina’s water development journey, ensuring that millions of residents will soon have access to clean, safe, and sustainable water supply — a goal that has remained elusive for over four decades.
