By joshua 
KOGI GOVT, N-HYPPADEC MOVE TO REVIVE IDAH WATER WORKS AS COMMISSIONER FLAGS VANDALISM CHALLENGE
… Commissioner for Water Resources pledges protection measures as federal agency pushes for restoration of abandoned facility
The Kogi State Government has pledged full cooperation with the National Hydroelectric Power Producing Areas Development Commission (N-HYPPADEC) to revive the long-abandoned Idah Water Works, as both parties intensify efforts to tackle the persistent water scarcity affecting Idah and surrounding communities.
The Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya MD Farouk, made this known during a visit by N-HYPPADEC officials to the Kogi State Ministry of Water Resources in Lokoja.
He described the engagement as timely, noting that the state government is already exploring strategies to revitalize waterworks across Kogi.
While commending N-HYPPADEC for its proactive intervention, the Commissioner raised concern over the persistent vandalism of water infrastructure, which he said remains a major obstacle to reliable water supply in Kogi East.
“We are taking stronger measures to safeguard public assets, including formal agreements with community leaders to ensure the protection and sustainability of rehabilitated facilities,” Engr. Farouk stated.
The meeting centered on technical and operational modalities for restoring the Idah Water Works to full functionality. The proposed intervention will include a comprehensive assessment of existing infrastructure, rehabilitation of critical components, upgrading of equipment, and the establishment of sustainable management systems for long-term operation.
Leading N-HYPPADEC’s delegation, the Managing Director, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq Yelwa (FCNA, FNIIS, FNIM), said the revival of the Idah Water Works is a priority under the Commission’s mandate to improve living conditions in hydroelectric power-producing areas. He stressed that access to clean and safe water is fundamental to public health and sustainable development.
Represented by the Director of Finance and Administration, Dr. Gabi Haruna Jimoh, the Managing Director noted that the engagement is designed to strengthen collaboration with the state government, harmonize technical efforts, and ensure efficient use of resources.
“This intervention is part of our broader mandate to improve the quality of life in member states. Reviving the Idah Water Works will not only provide safe drinking water but also enhance public health, stimulate economic activities, and support overall community development,” he said.
Also speaking, the Director of Operations, Engr. Iliyasu Abdullahi Wara (FNSCE), recommended the engagement of competent local contractors to guarantee efficiency, timely delivery, and community ownership of the project. He reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to executing high-quality and sustainable projects across its member states.
Residents of Idah and adjoining communities have for years relied on unsafe water sources due to the facility’s non-functionality.
The planned revival is expected to bring significant relief, improve hygiene standards, and boost economic activities in the area.
N-HYPPADEC reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in project execution as it continues to deliver interventions in hydroelectric power-producing regions.
Other members of the delegation included the Kogi State Coordinator, Dr. Michael Omeiza Ajayi, Dr. Adamu Zubairu Utono, and the Idah Area Officer, Mr. Chinedu Ndubisi Paul.