By Abdulhameed Ivavah.
The Federal Lawmaker representing Ajaokuta Federal Constituency, Hon. Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem, has commissioned a 25,000-litre water tank in Oguro community and also commissioned a modern borehole project at the NYSC Lodge in Ajaokuta.
Speaking during the event, Hon. Abdulraheem described the borehole project as a modest intervention aimed at ensuring adequate water supply for corps members residing in the NYSC Lodge. He assured the people of Ajaokuta that more giant water projects are underway to further address water challenges in the area.
The Kogi State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya Faruq, commended the lawmaker for his proactive efforts, noting that “the provision of water is the provision of life.”
The NYSC corps members expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the lawmaker for his thoughtful gesture, promising to safeguard the facility for the benefit of both the corps members and the host community.
Earlier, Hon. Abdulraheem joined the management of West African Ceramics Limited (WACL) for the grand commissioning of the Oguro Community Water Project. The lawmaker, who officially commissioned the project, applauded the company’s management for their commitment to community development, describing the gesture as a laudable way of giving back to their host community.
He further urged the youth and residents of Oguro and Ajaokuta at large to take advantage of the company’s presence by acquiring relevant skills that could help them benefit from its operations. Hon. Abdulraheem also commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for creating a conducive environment for industrialization in Kogi State through effective leadership and enhanced security.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of WACL, Mr. Franklin Josea, recounted the company’s initial challenges in sourcing raw materials from Maiduguri, a distance of about 1,200 km. He noted that with local sourcing now possible within Ajaokuta, production costs have been significantly reduced. Mr. Josea assured that the company remains committed to rewarding the host community for their continuous cooperation.
The Ohi of Ajaokuta, HRH Isah Musa Achuja, commended both the lawmaker and the company for their efforts toward community development. He urged WACL to extend similar gestures to other parts of Ajaokuta.
Also speaking, Hon. Lawal Idrisu, Chairman of WACL, appreciated all dignitaries in attendance and highlighted the company’s numerous corporate social responsibility initiatives.
The Commissioner for Urban and Housing Development, Hon. Abanika Taiye , praised Governor Ododo for his tax-friendly policies that have encouraged industrial growth across the state.
The Executive Chairman of Ajaokuta Local Government Area, who played host to the event, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing adequate security to ensure industries continue to thrive. He also called for greater collaboration in tackling pressing local issues.
Other dignitaries at the event included Rt. Hon. Aguye, Member representing Lokoja Federal Constituency; the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Joseph; Special Advisers to the Governor, and several other top officials who accompanied Hon. Sanni Egidi Abdulraheem.
