Senator Ned Nwoko has once again called on the Delta State Government to harness the vast potential of the Ogwashi-Uku Dam to provide potable water, generate electricity, and deliver other critical amenities to the people.
The senator, who has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to the welfare of his constituents in Delta North and the wider Delta State, emphasized his desire to see every household access clean, potable water—not only for domestic use but also to support agriculture through irrigation.
A vocal advocate for the full utilization of the multi-functional dam, Senator Nwoko urged the state government, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to complete the required infrastructure needed to activate the dam’s full potential.
According to the Federal Government, its obligations have already been fulfilled, including the construction of the dam. This position was communicated in a letter dated June 26, 2024, from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation.
The letter stated in part: “The Federal Government therefore urges that the State Government needs to build the water treatment plant and install the piping system required to deliver water to homes and farms.”
It further advised the Delta State Government to collaborate with the Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority (BORBDA), to which the dam was handed over upon completion in 2019, for effective utilization of the impounded water.
Once fully operational, the Ogwashi-Uku Dam is expected to serve three major functions:
First, it will provide clean, pipe-borne water to residents. With the establishment of a water treatment plant, over 70 surrounding communities will gain access to safe drinking water.
Second, the dam will support irrigation, boosting agricultural productivity, enhancing food security, and empowering local farmers.
Third, the dam holds significant potential for power generation, which could greatly improve electricity supply in the region.
Senator Nwoko, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has continued to push for stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities to ensure the project’s completion. He has held several discussions with both former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and the current administration, stressing the urgency of delivering the project for the benefit of the people.
Despite these efforts and reported federal allocations, the Delta State Government has cited financial constraints, maintaining that the responsibility lies primarily with the Federal Government.
However, Senator Nwoko maintains that the state government must prioritize the well-being of its citizens by investing in critical infrastructure that improves everyday life. He noted that effective collaboration would not only deliver tangible benefits to the people but also strengthen public confidence in governance.
He argued that improved access to water, electricity, and irrigation would stimulate economic growth, boost local businesses, and enhance overall living standards across the state.
The senator has also consistently highlighted on national platforms that Nigeria is a resource-rich nation and that its citizens should not be subjected to hardship. He reiterated that with increased allocations to states, there is a greater responsibility on governments at all levels to work together to deliver meaningful development.
In further demonstration of his commitment, Senator Nwoko has initiated plans for a second dam in Idumuje-Ugboko, which has already been captured in the federal budget. While he continues to advocate for new projects, he stressed the importance of completing existing ones, particularly the Ogwashi-Uku Dam.
His vision is clear: a Delta State where every household has access to clean water, farmers benefit from irrigation systems, and communities enjoy reliable electricity generated from local resources.
Senator Nwoko also reiterated his call for access to power generated at Okpai to benefit host communities and neighboring areas, alongside expanded efforts to harness additional energy from the Ogwashi-Uku Dam.
He emphasized that his advocacy remains focused on development, not politics, and called on all stakeholders to avoid politicizing issues that directly impact citizens’ welfare.
The senator concluded by urging stronger cooperation among all levels of government to fulfill their commitments to the people, stressing that sustainable growth and improved living conditions can only be achieved through collective effort.