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President Bola Tinubu officially inaugurated 15 motorised boreholes in Benue on Thursday, marking a significant step towards addressing the challenge of access to potable drinking water in the state.

The inauguration, which took place at Wannue in the Tarka Local Government Area, saw President Tinubu acknowledging the pivotal role played by the National Lottery Trust Fund in funding the boreholes. Represented by the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mr Zaphaniah Jisalo, President Tinubu highlighted the profound impact this initiative would have on the local communities. He revealed that out of the 19 motorised boreholes constructed by the Trust Fund, 15 were strategically located in Tarka and Gboko Local Government Areas of Benue.

Speaking at the inauguration, President Tinubu commended the management of the Trust Fund for their expeditious delivery of these vital water projects. He underscored the profound significance of these projects in providing clean and accessible water, averting the spread of diseases, and enhancing the overall health and well-being of the communities.

Additionally, the President emphasized the immense potential of the lottery industry as a catalyst for economic growth and development. He pledged the government’s commitment to fortifying the legislative framework governing the lottery sector, with an emphasis on leveraging its revenue-generating capacity to drive infrastructural and socio-economic advancement across the nation.

Dr Bello Maigari, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Lottery Trust Fund, reiterated their dedication to the cause, revealing that a total of 15 motorised boreholes were completed and ready for public use in selected communities across Benue. He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering resolve to extend this programme to every community in need of clean drinking water nationwide.

Highlighting the pressing need for improved water accessibility, Dr Maigari referenced the World Bank’s estimation that 70 million Nigerians grapple with inadequate access to safe drinking water. He further underscored the imperative of empowering communities with fundamental infrastructure to enhance water access, mitigate disease transmission, and bolster overall health and well-being.

Moses Tarka, a representative of the late JS Tarka family, expressed gratitude for the transformative impact of the motorised borehole, underscoring the arduous water challenges the community had endured prior to this intervention. He lauded the government for its proactive approach in addressing their long-standing water scarcity, emphasizing the pivotal role of the newly commissioned borehole in fostering community-wide access to clean water.

The significance of this milestone cannot be overstated, particularly for the residents of Wannue and the surrounding communities, as this initiative not only addresses a fundamental need but also signifies a tangible demonstration of government commitment to grassroots development.

With this symbolic gesture, President Tinubu’s administration has provided a beacon of hope for communities grappling with water scarcity, setting the stage for improved standards of living and enhanced well-being.