Gov. Aregbesola
Osun hails Fed Govt for water projects
Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, has commended the Federal Government for its water projects in the state.
The Governor praised President Goodluck Jonathan when he paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Reng Ochekpe in her office. He acknowledged the tremendous work the government is doing in providing water for the state.
According to him, Ilesha town has been without pipe-borne water for over 50 years before the Federal Government came to the aid of the town by releasing funds to complete the town’s water dam.
“I am quite impressed with what you have done in Osun State and I find it necessary to come here to express my profound gratitude to the Federal Government, especially in the construction of Ilesha water project,” he said.
The governor disclosed that Ogun/ Osun River Basin projects in the state, which are 12 and the Ilesha dam are considered a great honour done to the state by President Goodluck Jonathan. He reminded the minister about the Ife dam, noting that its completion would be an honour to Yoruba race.
He solicited the support of the Ministry in constructing the treatment plant, while the state government would reticulate and distribute the water to the people. He said though the state is expected to construct the treatment plant, the state does not have the funds required for the project.
Speaking on irrigation, Aregbesola said the state needs irrigation for all season farming and pleaded for more Federal Government’s support. “Please don’t relent on your efforts in doing your best for Osun State,” he said.
Responding, the Minister said the on-going projects of his ministry in Osun and other states are as a result of President Jonathan’s determination to complete abandoned projects across the country.
Mrs. Ochekpe reiterated Federal Government’s desire for a stronger partnership with state governments for service to be delivered to the citizenry.
According to her, the responsibility of the ministry is to provide fresh bulk water while the provision of a treatment plant and water reticulation.
President Jonathan, she said, is committed to the agricultural transformation of the country through irrigation and water supply projects for food security.
“Since it is obvious that rain-fed agriculture alone cannot guarantee food security to the nation, a lot is being done to support irrigation projects all over the country and Osun State will not be left out,” she added
