The senator representing Delta North Senatorial zone, Senator Ned Nwoko has intensified efforts to ensure the people of Delta State benefit from the full potential of the Ogwashi-Uku dam in Ogwashi uku, Aniocha south local government of the state.
The senator has made a strong case for the dam’s revolutionary potential and has urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to complete building the infrastructure needed to fully use the dam’s multifunctional capabilities.
In a recent letter from Senator Nwoko to the Federal Government, the later acknowledged to having fulfilled its contractual responsibilities with regard to the construction of the dam.
The letter, dated June 26, 2024 and signed by the Minister of Water Resources & Sanitation (ref. No. FMWR&S/DRO/29/5.IV/C.2/T/342), emphasized that the Federal Government had fulfilled its obligations, including building the dam.
The letter emphasized how urgently the Delta State Government has to build a water treatment facility and set up a network of pipes in order to supply farmers and houses with potable water.
Also, it requested collaboration between the State Government and the Benin-Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), to which the Federal Government handed over the dam upon its completion in 2019, to ensure the effective utilization of the impounded water.
The Ogwashi-Uku dam, once fully operational, promises to deliver three critical services to the region: “Potable Water Supply: The dam has the capacity to provide clean, treated water to households in over 70 surrounding communities.
The construction of a water treatment plant by the State Government is essential to ensure safe drinking water reaches every home.
Irrigation for Agricultural Development: The dam will supply water for irrigation, supporting local farmers and boosting food production, thereby enhancing food security in the state.
Power Generation: In addition to water supply, the dam has the potential to generate electricity, which could significantly improve energy supply in the region.”
Nwoko, the only serving Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senator in Delta State, has been relentless in his pursuit of this causeHe has held multiple discussions with key figures, including former Governor Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, emphasizing the urgency of completing the dam’s infrastructure.
Despite these efforts, the Delta State Government has frequently cited financial constraints as a barrier, insisting that the Federal Government should bear responsibility for the remaining tasks.
Nwoko argued that the State Government must prioritise the welfare of its citizens by completing the necessary infrastructure.
He believed improved infrastructure, particularly in water supply, power generation, and Agricultural support, will lead to economic growth and improved living standards for the people of Delta State.
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In his continued advocacy, Nwoko has been vocal on national platforms, asserting that Nigeria is a wealthy nation, and its citizens should not suffer from basic needs.
He has called for greater cooperation between the Federal and State Governments, stressing that such collaboration is key to making life more bearable for the people of Delta State.
In addition to his efforts on the Ogwashi-Uku dam, Nwoko has initiated plans for a second dam in Idumuje-Ugboko, which has already been included in the federal budget.
His commitment to improving living conditions and empowering the agricultural sector is unwavering, but he insists that the Delta State Government must step up to fulfill its role in completing the Ogwashi-Uku dam project.
Nwoko envisions a future where every home in Delta North has access to clean water, farmers are empowered with irrigation systems, and the state fully harnesses its power generating potential.
To achieve this vision, he calls for cooperation and commitment from all stakeholders, particularly the Delta State Government.
