Cross River state in Nigeria signs deal for Ogoja water project

The Cross River State Government in Nigeria has signed a N2.6bn ($17m) contract with China-based CGC Nigeria for the construction of Ogoja water scheme.

The Ogoja water project is anticipated to be completed over the next 18 months and will supply water to Ogoja, Bekwarra and Yala areas.

Once completed, the project will increase access to potable to more than 80% of the state population.

Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke said: "The provision of potable water and access to water has been on the top of our agenda as an administration.

"It is our vision that if we can deliver on our projects to the people across the state, then we would achieve the vision of making life easier and reducing poverty while improving on overall well-being of the citizenry."

As per the procurement document, the project includes construction of intake weir across River Aya in Ogoja town, rehabilitation of an intake pump, construction of low lift pumping station and raw water mains.

The project also involves construction of a 423m³/h water treatment plant, laying water transmission pipes, elevated water tanks and ground level reservoirs.

The project will supply water to settlements including Ugaga, Okuku, Army Barracks Ogoja, Ijibor, Ugboro, Abuochichi, Ukpah, Afrike, Okpeche and Ocheghe.

Ogoja water project follows the launch of Ikom Water scheme in the state.

Phase I of the Ikom project was funded by the state while its second phase will be funded by the World Bank.