The residents of Olumbanasa community in Anambra West Local Government Area of Anambra State are ecstatic as they witness the arrival of the first-ever pipe-borne water supply in their ancient community.
People of all ages gathered at the water supply locations on Wednesday, welcoming the arrival of clean water. They described the project as “historic” and “unexpected”, marking a significant milestone for the community.
The water supply, built by the state government, had water tanks installed at various locations in the community for easy accessibility by the residents.
Olumbanasa, a riverine community in the creek of Anambra West LGA, has remained inaccessible as it is mainly being navigated through the River Niger.
The state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, had in November 2023, visited the “inaccessible” community by a speed boat.
During the visit, Soludo, who described the community as one considered by his predecessors as “unreachable”, showed his happiness after navigating the community through River Niger in the company of the Catholic Bishop of Aguleri, Denis Isizoh.
The governor described the visit as a “voyage.”
“It was a testament to my steadfast commitment to reach every nook and cranny, every soul of our beloved Anambra State.
“The journey was also a personal milestone as it marked my first time being transported in a Keke through the rural areas. This experience was more than just a thrilling ride, it allowed me a glimpse into the everyday life of our valued Anambra citizens.
“Olumbanasa, a place once considered unreachable by my predecessors, was made accessible due to your unwavering faith and trust in my leadership. This visit, unprecedented in the annals of Anambra State, represents a historic achievement, a step no Governor before me has taken,” the governor said.
Various residents who spoke during the opening of the water supply, expressed gratitude to the state government for deeming it fit to bring succour to them through the provision of pipe-borne water.
A community leader, Mazi Eze Iwello, said, “This is a symbolic and historic feat. Never seen before in the history of our community. Our heart brims with profound emotions that transcend the scope of language.
“Together, we are thanking the state government for this. navigated through River Niger to pay a visit to the resilient and indefatigable people of Olumbanasa in Anambra West LGA.
“This voyage is more than a symbolic gesture to every one of us in Olumbanasa; it is a testament to the commitment of the state government towards good governance.
“This is the first time since I was born seeing pipe-borne water in my community. Since I was born, we got our water from the streams and surrounding rivers and over the years, that was where the people of the community sourced their water with its dirt and pollution. This water supply is a good development for us.”
Another resident, Grace Echendu, said, “Fetching water from the streams has been a strenuous affair to us and we never imagined that there would be a time when water supply would get to us.
“This experience is more than just a thrilling ride, it has given us a glimpse of hope into the everyday life of our valued community. It is unprecedented in the annals of our community, it represents a historic achievement.”
