IBADAN/Nigeria: In a bid to address the pressing need for improved access to clean water and sanitation, the Oyo State Government is poised to enter a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with WaterAid. The partnership aims to bolster efforts in transforming lives and lifting communities out of poverty by enhancing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure.
Chairman of the Oyo State Water Corporation, Hon. Elias Adeojo, announced this development following a meeting with representatives from WaterAid Nigeria, led by the Acting Director of Programmes, Mr. Alao Adebayo.
Adeojo underscored the significance of the impending MoU, highlighting its potential to revolutionize water resource management in the state. He emphasized the pivotal role such collaborations play in advancing the developmental agenda of the state government, attracting support from reputable organizations worldwide.
However, Adeojo lamented the challenges facing the Corporation, particularly the persistent issue of erratic power supply hampering the functionality of water schemes across the state. Despite economic constraints, he affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring access to potable water for all residents.
Adeojo called upon WaterAid to lend its support in rejuvenating the Corporation’s operations, urging the organization to contribute in any capacity deemed appropriate to restore the efficacy of water schemes.
In response, WaterAid Nigeria’s representative, Mr. Alao Adebayo, reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to assisting Oyo State in its quest for improved water access. He stressed the transformative potential of the forthcoming MoU in bolstering the capacity of the Oyo State Water Corporation.
Adebayo highlighted WaterAid’s track record in implementing WASH projects and expressed readiness to extend similar support to Oyo State. He cited the organization’s recent collaboration with the Lagos State Government as a testament to its commitment, promising expedited assistance to the Corporation pending necessary procedural formalities.
The partnership between the Oyo State Government and WaterAid heralds a promising step towards addressing the critical need for enhanced water infrastructure, underscoring the collective effort required to foster sustainable development and alleviate poverty within communities.
