Federal Ministry Commissions Borehole at NYSC Camp to Boost Clean Water Access

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation on Saturday commissioned a newly constructed borehole at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Kubwa, Abuja, as part of efforts to improve access to clean water and sanitation.

The initiative is aimed at addressing the long-standing challenge of water scarcity at the camp, ensuring that corps members and staff have a steady supply of potable water for their daily needs.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Joseph Utsev, emphasized the importance of clean water in maintaining hygiene, preventing waterborne diseases, and enhancing the overall well-being of corps members.

He stated that the project aligns with the federal government’s commitment to improving water supply infrastructure across the country, particularly in institutions that accommodate large numbers of people.

The minister commended the NYSC management for their cooperation in facilitating the project, noting that access to clean water is a fundamental necessity for the welfare of corps members, who play a crucial role in national development.

He assured that the ministry would continue to support similar projects in other NYSC camps across the country to ensure a conducive environment for the young graduates participating in the scheme.

In his remarks, the Director-General of the NYSC, Brigadier General Yusha’u Ahmed, expressed gratitude to the ministry for the intervention, describing it as a timely and much-needed solution to one of the camp’s major challenges.

He highlighted the importance of clean water in ensuring the health and comfort of corps members, particularly during the rigorous three-week orientation program.

He also reiterated the NYSC’s commitment to collaborating with government agencies and stakeholders to improve facilities in orientation camps nationwide.

Corps members at the Kubwa camp, who had previously struggled with limited access to water, expressed their appreciation for the project, noting that it would significantly ease their daily activities, including cooking, bathing, and maintaining overall hygiene.

One of the corps members, Adaeze Okafor, said that water shortages had been a major concern, especially given the large population in the camp.

She described the new borehole as a game-changer that would greatly enhance the living conditions for corps members.

Another corps member, David Bassey, noted that the availability of clean water would reduce the risk of waterborne diseases, allowing corps members to focus on their training and other camp activities without health concerns.

He called on the government to extend such interventions to all NYSC camps to ensure uniform access to essential amenities.

The commissioning of the borehole also aligns with the broader objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 6, which seeks to ensure access to clean water and sanitation for all.

Nigeria has been making efforts to improve water infrastructure, but challenges such as inadequate funding, poor maintenance of facilities, and population growth continue to hinder progress.

The Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation has been at the forefront of implementing policies and projects aimed at addressing these challenges.

In recent years, the ministry has undertaken several water supply projects, including the rehabilitation of existing boreholes, construction of new water facilities, and implementation of sanitation programs in rural and urban areas.

The provision of clean water at the NYSC camp in Kubwa is expected to serve as a model for similar projects in other public institutions, ensuring that students, corps members, and workers have access to safe and hygienic water sources.

The project also underscores the importance of government-private sector collaboration in tackling water scarcity.

Experts in the water sector have long advocated for increased investment in water infrastructure, emphasizing that access to clean water is not just a necessity but a fundamental human right.

Water scarcity in public institutions, including NYSC camps, has been a recurring issue, often leading to unsanitary conditions and health risks for occupants.

Some corps members in the past have had to rely on alternative water sources, including purchasing water from vendors, which is not always safe or affordable.

The newly constructed borehole is equipped with modern water treatment technology to ensure that the water meets health and safety standards.

Officials at the event confirmed that the borehole would be regularly maintained to prevent breakdowns and ensure a continuous water supply.

The commissioning ceremony was attended by representatives from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, NYSC officials, corps members, and other stakeholders who lauded the initiative and called for sustained efforts in addressing water-related challenges.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with issues of water accessibility, the intervention at the NYSC camp in Kubwa is seen as a step in the right direction, demonstrating the government’s commitment to improving public welfare.

Many corps members expressed hope that such projects would become a standard practice in all NYSC camps, ensuring that young graduates undergoing the mandatory national service program do not have to struggle with basic necessities.

With the borehole now operational, the focus will be on ensuring its long-term sustainability and expanding similar initiatives to other locations where access to clean water remains a challenge.

The intervention by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation highlights the critical role of water in fostering a healthy and productive society, reinforcing the need for continued investment in the sector.

For now, corps members at the Kubwa orientation camp can breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that clean water is readily available

, making their camp experience smoother and more comfortable.