Sokoto water supply disrupted by pipeline rupture

…government begins emergency repairs

By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

The Sokoto State Government has launched emergency actions to restore water supply after a major pipeline that carries raw water to treatment plants ruptured, disrupting distribution throughout Sokoto metropolis and nearby communities.

During an inspection of the damaged pipeline section along the Sokoto River on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi Iya (Iyan Sokoto), assured residents of action.

The commissioner, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Water Resources and the Sokoto State Water Board, evaluated the damage from the rupture that occurred Sunday night following a heavy downpour.

The pipeline carries raw water from the Kware Water Intake to the New Extension Water Treatment Plant, a critical facility that supplies treated water to thousands of households and institutions in the state capital.

After the inspection, Iya told journalists that the incident represented a major setback but that the government had already begun measures to restore services.

“The pipeline was submerged and several of its accessories were washed away. Consequently, the pumping of water to treatment facilities was disrupted, affecting the supply of potable water to residents across Sokoto metropolis and adjoining communities,” he said.

He added that the government had instructed relevant agencies to work around the clock to restore normal water supply and reduce the hardship caused by the disruption.

“We have already swung into action and are urgently working on alternative water supply routes to divert the pipeline and restore adequate water distribution to our people,” the commissioner said.

He said that ongoing repairs have been hampered by high water levels and sand accumulation around the damaged section.

“We cannot complete the repairs immediately because the water level remains high and there is significant sand deposition around the affected area. Comprehensive repairs will be completed as soon as conditions permit,” he added.

Iya also revealed that the state government had included plans in the 2026 budget to modernise water infrastructure, replace obsolete equipment, and strengthen the operational capacity of the Sokoto State Water Board.

“The administration recognises the urgent need to modernise our water infrastructure. Funds have been earmarked in the 2026 budget for new equipment, accessories and other critical facilities to replace aging and decayed infrastructure,” he said.

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