The Oyo State Government has introduced a unified regulatory framework and established a standard drilling fee of N14,000 per meter for groundwater abstraction, popularly known as borehole water supply, throughout the state.This development was revealed by the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, during an interactive session with stakeholders in the groundwater abstraction sector, held on Thursday at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan.According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, the meeting aimed to address the sector’s pressing challenges and foster collaborative solutions to ensure the sustainable management of groundwater resources.Mogbonjubola emphasized the importance of engaging with sector stakeholders to restore order and strike a fair balance that supports both borehole drilling companies and mid-level operators.He stated, “A central priority of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration is ensuring access to clean and safe water for all citizens of Oyo State through all practical means.
“That’s why the government is creating a supportive environment for individuals and communities who wish to invest in borehole drilling.” In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Sunday Ojelabi, underlined the critical role of water access, encouraging stakeholders to align with the government’s regulatory initiatives to improve efficiency and compliance.
“Water is essential to life, and those who facilitate access to it provide a lifeline. This gathering presents a valuable opportunity for us to collaboratively shape solutions that benefit the entire state,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, expert Ajayi Richard noted that 23 companies are currently collaborating with the ministry, with 12 active drilling rigs enhancing the sector’s growth.
The event was attended by notable figures including Kolawole Olayinka, Chairman of the Association of Water Well Drilling Rig Owners and Practitioners; Prof. Christopher Adeigbe, Chairman of the Nigerian Mining & Geosciences Society; and Ajibola Anjoyin.
Source : https://punchng.com/
