Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, officially commissioned the 9th Mile 24/7 Water Scheme on Saturday. The newly inaugurated water facility boasts a substantial daily production capacity of 70,000 cubic meters.

Mbah, who had committed to supplying water to every household in the state within 180 days of assuming office, declared the day as ‘Enugu Water Day.’

During the commissioning, he announced plans for additional pumps at the Oji Water Scheme, aiming to contribute an extra 50,000 cubic meters daily, resulting in a total daily supply of 120,000 cubic meters.

The 9th Mile facility, in existence for 41 years but dormant for the last two decades, underwent revival and upgrades to address longstanding water-related challenges in the state.

Mbah emphasized his administration’s strategic planning for the Oji Water Scheme, highlighting its 50,000 cubic meters daily capacity.

In his speech, Governor Mbah discussed the broader vision of his administration, linking the provision of potable water to economic growth.

He acknowledged the severe water challenges experienced by residents in the past and expressed the necessity of resolving this fundamental issue.

He stated, “It was clear to us that the status of water supply at the time was deplorable. At that time, there had been no reliable water supply in most parts of Enugu State for almost 20 years.”

Mbah further detailed the significance of water supply to economic activities, stating, “Few investors will be attracted to the state under such dire circumstances, nor can existing businesses expand to generate additional jobs and economic growth.”

Addressing the skepticism surrounding his commitment to providing potable water within 180 days, the governor declared, “Happily, for us all, here we are, 180 days from that promise, commissioning this new ultra-modern water scheme with a capacity to deliver to businesses and families in Enugu 70 million litres of potable water daily, and this is but the first phase.”

He reassured residents that the challenges faced, such as burst pipes, were expected teething problems that would be overcome in a matter of weeks.
Mbah encouraged residents to cooperate in payment for services and protect the newly installed facilities.

“Reliable water supply is not cheap! But I promise that this water will be far less expensive than what you are spending today on water tanker supply.”

“We must be willing to pay for connection to the meters, which will be installed in our homes and businesses, and pay a fair monthly rate for the water we consume,” Mbah stated.