The Plateau State government has awarded a N30 billion contract for the rehabilitation and construction of conservation structures at Langtang Dam to improve water supply in the region.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who signed the contract on Saturday in Jos, said the project reflects his administration’s commitment to solving the persistent water shortage in the southern senatorial district.
“We inherited a water sector that was virtually on its knees. For years, the Yakubu Gowon Dam had no serious intervention, leading to epileptic water supply within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis,” Mutfwang said.
He assured residents that his government is tackling the issue step by step. “Each time we address one issue, another emerges, but we are working tirelessly to fix them holistically. God helping us, in the next six months, we aim to resolve the challenges surrounding the Yakubu Gowon Dam and other key dams within the metropolis,” he added.
World Bank-Backed Initiative
The contract was awarded under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL) project, a World Bank-funded initiative in partnership with the state government. Mutfwang explained that the project, located in Langtang North Local Government Area, is designed to combat desertification and ensure sustainable water supply and environmental restoration.
“The project is financed through a loan secured under the World Bank framework in collaboration with other northern states,” the governor stated.
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The scope of work includes desilting two dams in Langtang North, constructing hedge rows to minimize future siltation, and maintaining washout embankments using laterite filling compacted to 100 percent standards.
Additionally, the project will include planting grass and trees to prevent erosion, enhance environmental preservation, and curb land degradation.
Completion Timeline and Commitment
Mutfwang confirmed that the project would be completed within 30 months, ensuring a stable water supply for the southern part of Plateau State.
Garba Gonkol, the project coordinator of ACReSAL in Plateau, praised the governor for prioritizing projects that directly benefit the people.
Similarly, Akin Fagbohun, the project engineer and contractor, assured the public that the work would be completed according to specifications.
Residents of Langtang and surrounding communities have expressed hope that the project will finally bring an end to years of water scarcity.