The Kogi State Government has commenced emergency electro-mechanical rehabilitation of the Greater Lokoja Water Works to restore public potable water supply to the state capital and surrounding communities.
The State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya M. D. Farouk, formally handed over the facility to the contractor, Gamji Nigeria Company Limited, on Monday in Lokoja.
Farouk directed the contractor to mobilize immediately and complete the rehabilitation within a four-month timeframe approved by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
“The people have been so patient, and the government has shown this commitment to effective service delivery. This is another milestone, and today is one of my happiest days and indeed memorable,” Farouk stated during the ceremony.
The commissioner clarified that the current electro-mechanical contract represents the first phase of the overall restoration project, noting that civil works on the facility will run concurrently once pumping operations resume.
He expressed optimism that the high-lift pumping station will be test-run before the end of December 2026.
Responding on behalf of the contractor, Team Lead Engr. Michael Oko assured the state government of timely execution in compliance with required technical specifications.
“There will be no hindrance as work will commence immediately. We are competent and must deliver on good record time,” Oko said.
Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Alhassan Omakoji, and the General Manager of the Kogi State Water Board, Engr. Lawal Momoh Jimoh, praised the state executive leadership for prioritizing urban infrastructure and public utilities.
The project is projected to achieve full operational capacity and restore regular pipe-borne water supply across Lokoja by January 2027.
