Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang on Thursday officially flagged off water production at the resuscitated Yelwa water treatment plant, describing the milestone as a major boost to potable water supply in Jos and surrounding communities.
The governor, who presided over the commissioning event attended by a World Bank team, expressed gratitude to God for the achievement and highlighted its direct benefits to rural women who have long endured the hardship of fetching water from distant sources. Coinciding with his birthday, Mutfwang remarked: “There is no better gift on my birthday than that I made some people happy.”
He saluted the resilience of rural women, stressing that investing in them is a worthwhile venture his administration will continue to prioritize. While noting that Plateau does not lack water resources, the governor emphasized the need for proper treatment, transportation, and consistent maintenance to deliver clean water to households. He urged staff of the Jos Water Services Corporation to treat their duties with utmost seriousness, warning that negligence in water quality amounts to endangering lives.
In a firm declaration, Mutfwang condemned rising encroachments on water bodies, dams, and reservoirs across the metropolis. He vowed to demolish structures built around water bodies meant for public consumption, insisting that the government would not sacrifice public health for the comfort of a few. He cautioned residents against acquiring or developing land near water infrastructure, warning of inevitable enforcement and financial losses.
The governor congratulated contractors, the sewage team, Jos Water Services Corporation, and all partners for delivering the project, describing the resuscitation of the long-dormant Yelwa plant as part of his broader push to revive critical water infrastructure. He assured Plateau residents that the initiative would enhance health, hygiene, and quality of life through reliable access to clean water.
By Golok Nanmwa, Jos
