NEDC Hands Over Upgraded Water Scheme in Yobe, Promises Relief for Gujba Communities

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) has transferred an upgraded water supply project in Buni Gari to the Yobe State Government, in a move aimed at tackling water scarcity in Gujba Local Government Area.

The intervention extends potable water from Buni Gari to Buni Yadi and neighbouring communities, many of which were severely affected by years of insurgency that destroyed critical infrastructure.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the NEDC’s Yobe State Coordinator, Ali Abbas, said the project reflects the commission’s commitment to rebuilding essential services in the North-East.

“This intervention is part of our mandate to support recovery and improve living conditions in communities that have suffered infrastructure damage due to conflict,” Mr Abbas said.

He noted that although the project had earlier been inaugurated by Governor Mai Mala Buni, it is now fully completed and ready for operational use.

The facility comprises four boreholes fitted with high-capacity submersible pumps and powered by a solar hybrid system, alongside connections to the national grid to ensure uninterrupted supply.

Other components include large-capacity water storage tanks, a booster station, an administrative building, and security structures. An extensive pipeline network has also been installed to enhance water distribution across the affected communities.

Mr Abbas added that an additional 6.01-kilometre pipeline network was constructed in response to demands from residents of Buni Yadi and surrounding areas.

“Today, we are formally handing over the facilities to the Yobe State Water Corporation and the Rural Water Sanitation and Hygiene Agency for sustainable management,” he said.

He reiterated the commission’s resolve to continue investing in infrastructure that supports livelihoods and stabilises communities recovering from conflict.

Mr Abbas also disclosed that the NEDC had supplied equipment, including pumps, solar accessories and pipes, to facilitate repairs of damaged boreholes across the state.

According to him, the intervention followed assessments conducted in over 100 communities where water facilities were found to be non-functional.

Receiving the project on behalf of the state government, the General Manager of the Yobe State Water Corporation, Alhaji Ba’Abba Habu, described the project as a major boost to water supply in the area.

“This project will significantly improve access to clean water for residents of Buni Yadi and neighbouring communities,” Mr Habu said.

He assured that the state government would ensure proper maintenance of the facilities to guarantee long-term sustainability.

Residents who spoke to reporters expressed optimism that the project would ease water shortages, reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, and lessen the burden on women and children who often travel long distances in search of water.

Road to Progress: KEPYO Praises Gov. Idris for Boosting Rural

By Jamila Muhammad

A youth advocacy group in Kebbi State, the Kebbi Progressive Youths (KEPYO), has praised Governor Nasir Idris for the completion of the Kangiwa–Chibike road, describing the project as clear evidence of his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises.

In a statement issued on Sunday, KEPYO spokesperson, Comrade Musa Adamu, said the road project reflects a leadership approach grounded in accountability and practical delivery. He noted that the governor’s performance in infrastructure development continues to strengthen public confidence in government.

“The completion of the Kangiwa–Chibike road is a strong indication that Governor Idris is not just making promises, but delivering on them,” Adamu said. “This kind of leadership inspires trust and reassures citizens that their expectations are being taken seriously.”

The group observed that the road has long been a pressing need for communities in the area, particularly in addressing transportation difficulties, enhancing trade, and improving access to essential services.

According to Adamu, the project is expected to stimulate economic activities across the benefitting communities, while also contributing to broader rural development.

“With this development, we anticipate a ripple effect on commerce and livelihoods in the area. It is a project that will bring lasting benefits to the people,” he added.

KEPYO also called on other public office holders to emulate what it described as the governor’s purposeful leadership style, stressing that sincere governance ultimately translates into visible impact on citizens’ lives.

The group reaffirmed its support for policies and programmes aimed at advancing development and improving the welfare of residents across Kebbi State.

Kebbi Police Commence Statewide Clearance Operation, Recover 2 AK-47 Rifles

By Abdullahi Tukur Birnin Kebbi

In a statement by the Kebbi State Police Command’s Public Relations SP Bashir Usman said the command has responded decisively to the coordinated attack that affected the villages of Gebe, Kalkami, Kawara, Kasoshi, Awaye, Tungar Rini, Binuwa, and Dabe in the Shanga Local Government Area of the state, resulting in 44 casualties during Easter.

The statement stated that, in line with directives of the Inspector‑General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan, the Command has launched a comprehensive clearance operation across the State to prevent and combat banditry and violent crimes.

According to the statement, following the attack, massive deployments of police and other security agencies have been made, leading to the return of relative calm in the affected areas, and an investigation has commenced.

It’s said that the ongoing clearance operation targets high‑risk areas, including farmlands, forests, border communities, and remote settlements. It features coordinated patrols, intelligence‑based stop‑and‑search operations, and joint actions with other security agencies.

As part of the statewide operation, the command has recovered two AK‑47 rifles along the Illo‑Kamba axis, demonstrating the effectiveness of intelligence‑led policing.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Umar M. Hadejia, therefore called on residents to remain vigilant, report suspicious movements, and cooperate fully with security agencies as well. The police encourage traditional rulers, community leaders, religious bodies, and youth groups to provide timely and credible information.