From, Abdulwahab Muhammad
For decades, many communities in Bauchi South struggled with water scarcity. Families often walked long distances to fetch water, and women spent hours each day carrying heavy containers from streams or wells. But with the commissioning of 40 solar-powered boreholes by Senator Shehu Buba Umar, life is beginning to change in remarkable ways.
Aisha, a mother of five from Dass Local Government, recalls how difficult it was to provide water for her children. “We used to wake up before dawn just to fetch water. Sometimes the stream would dry up, and we had to buy water at high prices,” she said. Today, with a solar-powered borehole in her ward, Aisha says her children can bathe before school, and she has more time to focus on her small business.
Youth Empowerment Through Access
For young people, the boreholes are more than just water—they represent opportunity. Musa, a youth leader in Tafawa Balewa, explained: “With clean water nearby, we can start small farms and irrigation projects. It gives us hope that we can build something for ourselves instead of leaving for the city.”
Local health workers have also noticed improvements. Clinics report fewer cases of waterborne diseases, and communities are cleaner. Solar technology ensures that the boreholes run reliably, even in remote areas, reducing dependence on erratic electricity supply.
Senator Umar’s initiative didn’t stop at water. He also provided ₦3 million in empowerment funds to women, youths, elders, and party structures. For Fatima, a young tailor, the ₦1 million support to youths means she can expand her business and train apprentices. “It’s not just money—it’s a chance to grow,” she said.
As communities celebrate these changes, many residents are already looking ahead. They believe that if Senator Umar becomes Governor in 2027, he could extend such impactful projects across Bauchi State. For now, the boreholes stand as a symbol of what responsive leadership can achieve.
End
