The African Development Bank (AfDB) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) have joined forces with the Borno State Government to tackle the severe water scarcity issue in Maiduguri.
A recent partnership roundtable, held on September 10, aimed to accelerate access to safe and sustainable water services for the city’s rapidly growing population.
The event’s timing was particularly poignant, as it coincided with the one-year anniversary of devastating floods in Borno that were worsened by the collapse of the Alau Dam. These events highlighted the urgent need for resilient water infrastructure.
Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, has seen its population more than double between 2006 and 2021 and is projected to exceed 2.5 million by 2030.
This explosive growth has placed immense pressure on existing water systems, which can no longer meet demand. Consequently, many residents, especially women and children, are forced to rely on unsafe and expensive water sources.
Mallam Bukar Tijani, Secretary to the Borno State Government, emphasized the state’s commitment to ensuring every citizen has access to safe and affordable water.
He stated that the government is dedicated to leveraging technology, expertise, and sustainable financing to bridge the gap in water provision.
Dr. Abdul Kamara, the AfDB’s Director General for Nigeria, highlighted the deep connection between water, resilience, and peace.
He noted that investing in water is a core component of the bank’s strategy for building resilience in Africa.
“Through strong partnerships, we are helping northern Nigeria move from recurring crises to a future of stability, resilience, and sustainable development,” Kamara stated.
Doris El Doueihy, head of the ICRC Delegation in Nigeria, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of combining immediate humanitarian aid with long-term development investments to prevent future crises.
The roundtable, which included representatives from the World Bank, the French Development Agency, UN agencies, and other partners, concluded with a powerful call to action.
The Borno State Government has committed to forming a steering committee to work closely with development partners and implement the Maiduguri Urban Water Supply Masterplan. This plan will serve as the guiding framework for expanding safe water access and enhancing resilience in a region scarred by conflict.
Over the past decade, the AfDB has invested more than $805 million in water and sanitation projects across Nigeria, benefiting over 8 million people. In Borno State alone, the bank’s programs have positively impacted 1.6 million people.
