Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North) has intensified efforts to ensure the people of Delta State benefit from the full potential of the Ogwashi-Uku dam.
The Senator has been vocal about the dam’s transformative potential, urging Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to complete the necessary infrastructure to activate the dam’s multi-functional capacities fully.
The Federal Government, in a recent communication to Senator Nwoko, confirmed that it had fulfilled its responsibilities concerning the dam’s construction.
The letter, signed by Minister of Water Resources & Sanitation June 26, 2024 (ref. No. FMWR&S/DRO/29/5.IV/C.2/T/342), emphasised that the Federal Government’s role, including the construction of the dam, had been completed.
The letter highlighted the urgent need for the Delta State Government to build a water treatment plant and install a piping system to deliver potable water to homes and farms.
It also urged the State Government to collaborate with the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), to which the Federal Government handed over the dam upon its completion in 2019, to ensure the effective utilization of the impounded water.
The Ogwashi-Uku dam, once fully operational, promises to deliver three critical services to the region: “Potable Water Supply: The dam has the capacity to provide clean, treated water to households in over 70 surrounding communities.
“The construction of a water treatment plant by the State Government is essential to ensure safe drinking water reaches every home.
“Irrigation for Agricultural Development: The dam will supply water for irrigation, supporting local farmers and boosting food production, thereby enhancing food security in the state.
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“Power Generation: In addition to water supply, the dam has the potential to generate electricity, which could significantly improve energy supply in the region.”
Nwoko, the only serving Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senator in Delta State, has been relentless in his pursuit of this cause.
He has held multiple discussions with key figures, including former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, emphasizing the urgency of completing the dam’s infrastructure.
Despite these efforts, the Delta State Government has frequently cited financial constraints as a barrier, insisting that the Federal Government should bear responsibility for the remaining tasks.
Nwoko argued that the State Government must prioritise the welfare of its citizens by completing the necessary infrastructure.
He believed improved infrastructure, particularly in water supply, power generation, and agricultural support, will lead to economic growth and improved living standards for the people of Delta State.
In his continued advocacy, Nwoko has been vocal on national platforms, asserting that Nigeria is a wealthy nation, and its citizens should not suffer from basic needs.
He has called for greater cooperation between the Federal and State Governments, stressing that such collaboration is key to making life more bearable for the people of Delta State.
In addition to his efforts on the Ogwashi-Uku dam, Nwoko has initiated plans for a second dam in Idumuje-Ugboko, which has already been included in the federal budget.
His commitment to improving living conditions and empowering the agricultural sector is unwavering, but he insists that the Delta State Government must step up to fulfill its role in completing the Ogwashi-Uku dam project.
Nwoko envisions a future where every home in Delta North has access to clean water, farmers are empowered with irrigation systems, and the state fully harnesses its power-generating potential.
To achieve this vision, he calls for cooperation and commitment from all stakeholders, particularly the State Government.