Kaduna Brings Clean Water to 1.5 Million Residents

More than a million people in Kaduna State, Nigeria now have reliable access to clean water, thanks to sweeping reforms that started just two years ago.

The state government declared a water emergency in 2023 after years of crumbling infrastructure and chronic shortages left residents struggling. Since then, officials have invested over N16 billion (about $10 million USD) to rebuild six major treatment plants and expand pipeline networks across urban and rural communities.

The results speak for themselves. Daily water production jumped from 450 million liters in 2023 to 530.66 million liters in 2025. Major facilities in cities like Kaduna, Zaria, Kafanchan, and Kagoro are now back online and serving their communities reliably.

The government didn't just fix pipes and pumps. They paid N900 million in back wages owed to water corporation staff and purchased 1,300 metric tonnes of treatment chemicals worth N1.5 billion to ensure safe water quality. Another 3,500 metric tonnes are on order to keep supplies steady.

State Commissioner for Information Ahmed Maiyaki announced the progress on World Water Day, highlighting how the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme has reached 1.5 million residents with improved services.

The Ripple Effect

Clean water access does more than quench thirst. When families don't have to walk miles for water or worry about waterborne diseases, everything improves. Children attend school more regularly. Parents spend less on medical care and more time working. Small businesses that depend on water can grow and hire.

The reforms are also modernizing how the system works long-term. Kaduna introduced automated billing systems to reduce waste and corruption, recovered N5.74 billion in project funding, and is updating water laws to protect these gains for future generations.

Building new reservoirs and installing modern equipment means the improvements should last. The state committed to equitable access, ensuring rural communities benefit alongside cities.

Officials say this is just the beginning of ensuring every resident has clean, safe water at home.