Edo seeks stronger FG partnership on water infrastructure, security

The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to deepening collaboration with the Federal Government to accelerate water infrastructure development, strengthen security around critical assets, and improve service delivery to residents.

Governor Monday Okpebholo stated this on Tuesday at the Government House in Benin City while receiving Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, alongside officials of the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA).

Okpebholo emphasised that effective federal-state collaboration is essential to achieving sustainable development outcomes, particularly in the water sector.

He disclosed that a recent inspection of BORBDA facilities uncovered serious concerns, including vandalism and wastage of public resources.

“A lot of resources are being wasted. This is not acceptable. You cannot invest so much and have it destroyed by acts of vandalism. We are taking steps to strengthen security around such areas,” the governor said.

The governor revealed plans to establish a dedicated security presence in vulnerable locations, including Obayantor, noting that the deployment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) would help safeguard infrastructure and enhance safety in the area.

On project financing, Okpebholo assured that the State would meet its counterpart funding obligations, particularly for the Jattu Dam project in Etsako West Local Government Area.

He stressed that beyond funding, timely execution remains critical due to the project’s strategic importance in addressing water supply challenges in Edo North.

“We will ensure the 25 percent counterpart funding is met. However, timely completion is equally important. Our people need water, and that project must be delivered as scheduled,” he said.

The governor also aligned the State’s infrastructure drive with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that Edo is positioning its development priorities in sync with national goals through targeted investments.