Revamp of Ojirami, Ikpoba River Dams Underway to Strengthen Supply Across Edo North, South
The Edo State Government has achieved a major breakthrough in its efforts to ensure clean and sustainable water supply across the State, with the full restoration of the Ugboha Water Supply Scheme in Edo Central.
The rehabilitation project, which now delivers uninterrupted water to Ugboha and parts of Uromi and Irrua, represents a significant turnaround in the State’s drive to revamp public utilities and improve citizens’ quality of life.
During an inspection of the facility, the Managing Director of the Edo State Urban Water Corporation, Mr. Uyi Ekhosuehi, revealed that this is the first time since the project’s establishment that Ugboha—the host community—has enjoyed safe, treated water.
He explained that years of neglect and the use of substandard materials by a previous contractor crippled the scheme, leaving residents without access despite huge investments.
“Ugboha never benefited from this project when it was originally executed. Substandard pipes were used, mixing UPVC with ductile materials, which caused constant leakages. The dam itself had suffered decades of poor maintenance,” Ekhosuehi said.
He noted that Governor Okpebholo ordered a comprehensive turnaround maintenance, resulting in the installation of a fully automated filtration plant, high-pressure pumping systems, and durable ductile industrial pipes capable of carrying water for large-scale reticulation.
With Ugboha now connected, extension works are ongoing to cover other parts of Uromi and Uwesan, while additional connections to Irrua, Ekpoma, Iruekpen, Illeh and surrounding communities will follow in the coming weeks.
Ekhosuehi further disclosed that design works are underway to reactivate the Ojirami and Ikpoba River dams, a move set to strengthen water supply across Edo North and South.
“Within the next five to six years, Governor Okpebholo wants to end the water challenge across Edo State,” he affirmed. “We are also working on restoring water to Agbede in Edo North and Sakponba in Edo South. Every Edo citizen, whether in urban or rural areas, must have access to safe, affordable water.”
Affordable Tariffs, Free Access for Rural Dwellers
On the partial commercialisation of the scheme, the Water Corporation boss clarified that urban households will be metered and pay a modest tariff of ₦600 per 1,000 litres—a huge relief compared to the ₦35,000 residents previously spent on water tankers. He emphasized that rural dwellers will continue to fetch water free of charge at designated points.
Government Officials, Residents React
Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mallam Gani Audu, who joined the inspection, lauded the project, describing it as “a remarkable achievement” and pledged to brief the governor for immediate next steps.
Residents of Ugboha, including Mr. Endurance Azobor, Mr. Joshua Ohonsi, and Mrs. Elizabeth Okosun, expressed deep gratitude, recalling how they once trekked long distances to fetch unsafe river water.
“Today, water runs just outside our homes. Our children and women are happy. The whole community is grateful to Governor Okpebholo and the Water Corporation,” said Mr. Azobor.
Key Facilities Overhauled
- Fully automated treatment and filtration plants
- High-pressure pumping systems
- Replacement of faulty UPVC pipes with heavy-duty ductile industrial pipes
With the restored scheme already transforming daily life in Edo Central, the Okpebholo administration says it remains committed to delivering sustainable, affordable, and equitable water supply across Edo State.
