The Oyo State Government has established standardized regulations and fixed a control price of ₦14,000 per meter for the drilling of groundwater abstraction, commonly known as borehole drinking water, across the state.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Arc. Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, disclosed this during an interactive meeting between the Ministry and stakeholders in groundwater abstraction, held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan.
He emphasized that the stakeholders’ meeting was convened to address the challenges faced by groundwater abstraction practitioners and develop collaborative solutions for the sustainable management of this vital resource.
Hon. Mogbonjubola further noted that engaging with industry stakeholders is crucial to bringing sanity to the system and ensuring a balanced approach that benefits both drilling rig owners and middle-level practitioners.
“One of the key agendas of the present administration, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, is to provide potable water to the citizens of Oyo State using every feasible strategy. This is why the government has created a favorable environment for individuals who can afford to drill boreholes in their communities,” Mogbonjubola stated.
In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Dr. Sunday Ojelabi, stressed the significance of water provision.
Dr. Ojelabi urged stakeholders to align with the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration’s efforts, emphasizing the need for seamless operations within the sector to enhance service delivery and ensure compliance with the new regulatory framework.
“Water is life, and those who provide water bring life. This meeting serves as a unique platform for collective brainstorming to support the people of Oyo State,” he said.
An expert, Mr. Ajayi Richard, highlighted key achievements in groundwater abstraction across the state.
He revealed that 23 companies are currently in partnership with the Ministry, with 12 active drilling machines promoting the profession. He also noted that both foreign and local drilling rig owners are creating employment opportunities for Oyo State residents.
The event had in attendance: Engr. Kolawole Olayinka, Chairman, Association of Water Well Drilling Rig Owners and Practitioners (AWDROP), Prof. Christopher Adeigbe, Chairman, Nigeria Mining & Geosciences Society (NMGS), Mr. Ajibola Anjorin, Chairman, Indigenous Drillers, Directors from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, and other key stakeholders.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to ensuring proper regulation, fair pricing, and a sustainable approach to groundwater abstraction in Oyo State.
