The Enugu State government has signed a $100 million partnership agreement with Wande Nexus, an Austrian firm, to implement the Sustainable Last Mile Connectivity and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project. This initiative aims to modernize Enugu’s water infrastructure, improve service delivery, and ensure equitable access to clean water for all households in the state capital.
The signing ceremony, held at the Government House, Enugu, on December 2, 2024, was attended by key dignitaries, including the Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Thomas Schlesinger. Governor Peter Mbah emphasized that the agreement represents a significant milestone in his administration’s drive for infrastructural transformation, describing it as a direct outcome of the Federal Government’s economic reforms and Enugu’s growing reputation as an investment hub.
Governor Mbah revealed that this agreement marks the culmination of months of rigorous efforts, progressing from a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to a full concession agreement. He assured residents that funds would be immediately disbursed to tackle the critical last-mile connectivity challenge in the state’s water distribution system.
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The governor highlighted his administration’s achievements in water production, noting a dramatic increase in water supply from a mere 2 million litres per day to 120 million litres per day. With the new partnership, production capacity is set to expand further to an impressive 200 million litres per day, addressing one of the most pressing challenges—network expansion and connection of tertiary pipelines to households across Enugu City.
Governor Mbah expressed confidence that the AMI Project would transform the water infrastructure in Enugu, positioning the state as a model for sustainable urban development in Nigeria. He thanked the Austrian government and Wande Nexus for their collaboration, emphasizing that this project underscores Enugu’s commitment to attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to drive socioeconomic growth.
This groundbreaking initiative is expected to enhance the quality of life for residents, reduce water shortages, and boost investor confidence in Enugu’s ability to deliver on its development goals.