The Enugu State Government has announced the commencement of a large-scale water infrastructure project aimed at connecting all households within the Enugu metropolis to its central water supply system.
The project, titled the ‘Water Last-Mile Connection Project’, is part of the government’s broader efforts to ensure the consistent delivery of clean, safe, and reliable water to every resident of the state capital and its surrounding areas.
According to a statement released on Friday by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Chidiebere Onyia, the initiative is being executed by the Enugu State Water Corporation.
The project involves a systematic connection of residential properties to the central water network and is considered a key step toward modernising the state’s ageing water infrastructure.
“All landlords, caretakers, and tenants in Enugu are hereby directed to grant unhindered access to officials and accredited agents of the Water Corporation for the purpose of connecting their property to the water infrastructure,” the statement read.
Prof. Onyia emphasised the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards illegal developments that hinder public utility projects.
He cautioned residents who have erected structures on water utility lines or public rights-of-way that such actions are not only illegal but also obstruct vital infrastructure work.
“Residents who have constructed buildings or structures on water utility lines or public rights-of-way are reminded that such developments are illegal.
“These individuals are also required to grant full and uninterrupted access to Water Corporation teams,” Onyia warned.
He further noted that any form of resistance or obstruction during the implementation of the project would be treated as a serious violation of state regulations and would prompt enforcement actions.
“This initiative is a key part of the government’s effort to deliver safe, clean, and reliable water to every home while also restoring and protecting public infrastructure for the benefit of all,” he added.
The state government has urged residents to cooperate fully with the connection teams and warned that non-compliance with the directive would attract sanctions as provided by the law.
Governor Peter Mbah, who assumed office in 2023, had pledged to restore regular water supply to the Enugu metropolis within 180 days of his inauguration—a promise he fulfilled.
However, the continued use of outdated and dilapidated pipelines posed a challenge to the efficient distribution of water across the city. In response, the Mbah administration initiated the replacement of old pipes through the state’s water board.
Enugu city’s water challenges are compounded by its geological setting, as the metropolis is built on coal deposits, which often contaminate underground water sources.
To address this, the state sources its potable water primarily from the 9th Mile area in the Udi Local Government Area, which is equipped with more reliable water extraction and treatment facilities.
The Water Last-Mile Connection Project marks a significant milestone in the government’s commitment to upgrading public infrastructure and improving the quality of life for residents across the state.
