Abuja, Nigeria – March 26, 2025
More than 5,000 women and children in Riwaza community, Ashara ward, Kwali Area Council, FCT, are forced to walk long distances to dig shallow wells for dirty, contaminated water, even as the government allocates N48.1 billion for water projects. Their only water source dries up during the dry season, leaving them with no choice but to drink from unsafe streams, exposing them to severe health risks and waterborne diseases.
Civic tech group Monitng has condemned the government’s spending priorities, criticizing the approval of N4.5 billion for the Nigeria Cultural Centre and Millennium Tower and another N4 billion for the Vice President’s residence while communities like Riwaza continue to lack clean water. The organization questioned how such misplaced priorities can be justified while thousands struggle to access a basic human necessity.
Monitng called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration and the Water Board to take immediate action, urging the government to redirect funds to life-saving projects like boreholes for Riwaza and other underserved communities. The group emphasized that water is a right, not a privilege, and urged the authorities to stop prioritizing luxury over the well-being of citizens.
With growing outrage, many are now watching to see whether the FCT government will finally address this crisis or continue to ignore the suffering of its people. The demand for #WaterForRiwaza is gaining momentum, and residents are hopeful that their voices will finally be heard.
