By Itodo D. Daniels.
In a bold stride towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) — ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation — the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has provided essential water and sanitation facilities to Upper Cantonment, a densely populated commercial community in Lokoja.
The intervention, executed through the Kogi State Community and Social Development Agency (KGCSDA), was officially disclosed by the General Manager of the agency, Chief Momoh Dauda, who noted that the project addressed two critical challenges in the community: severe water shortage and rampant open defecation.
“This initiative is part of our commitment to improving the quality of life in rural and underserved communities. The Upper Cantonment project is a key example of how community-based efforts, supported by government and donor funding, can transform lives,” Chief Momoh said.
Residents and local leaders have lauded the project, citing the positive impact on their daily lives. Secretary of the Cantonment Project Management Committee, Mr. Taiye Balogun, expressed gratitude to the government, saying, “Before now, this community had suffered from inadequate water supply, and open defecation was widespread. Governor Ododo has truly done something remarkable for us, and we are grateful.”
Balogun explained that to ensure sustainability, the facilities are maintained through minimal user fees, while indigent and vulnerable members of the community are exempted from payment.
According to Suleiman Tanimu, a long-time resident, “This intervention is a big achievement and a great relief. It has added significant value to our lives.”
Community leader, Mallam Muhammed Sani, highlighted the importance of the facilities for women and children. “This project has spared us the stress of traveling long distances for water and using the bush for toilets. The impact on the women and children, in particular, has been profound,” he noted.
A female resident, Hauwa Muhammed, added, “This water and toilet have really reduced our suffering, especially for us women. We now have access to clean water and decent toilet facilities.”
The Chairman of the Project Management Committee, Salihu Muhammed Balla, commended Governor Ododo and the KGCSDA for their timely response to the community’s long-standing needs. “This is a major milestone. We thank the Governor and the agency for listening to our cry and providing lasting solutions.”
Beyond water and sanitation, the KGCSDA also facilitated the supply of dual desks to the LGA Model Primary School in Upper Cantonment, enhancing the learning environment for school children.
The interventions were funded under the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) programme, aimed at supporting vulnerable populations and building community resilience.
Upper Cantonment, known for its vibrant commercial activities, is expected to see long-term benefits from these improvements, as access to clean water and sanitation is pivotal to health, dignity, and productivity.
Governor Ododo’s commitment to grassroots development continues to position Kogi State as a model for sustainable community empowerment in Nigeria.
