By Busuyi Ogidiolu
In a bid to increase access to safe water and good sanitation, Ekiti State government has made it mandatory for all water service providers to obtain operational license.
The commissioner for infrastructure and public utilities, Mr Bamidele Faparusi made this known in Ado Ekiti on the occasion of Flagg off of regulatory activities and issuance of license to Water service providers.
Mr faparusi maintained that the resultant effect of the regulation in water sector would lead to reduction in water borne diseases and promote public private partnership.
He urged borehole and water drillers, table and sachet water producers, water tanker operators, public toilets owners among others to key into the system for their own benefit and good of all.
“With these arrangements, the coast is now clear for interested individual, private and corporate organization to come and invest in the water and sanitation service provision in our dear state” He explained.
He promised that Ekiti State Water and sanitation Regulatory Agency EK-WASRA would at all times be ready to protect the interest of service providers so as to have gains on their investment and their customers in terms of quality service.
During a paper presentation, the permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mr olumide Ajayi told water service providers to always ensure equitable distribution of water to people but warned them against illegal connection on rubber pipes laid across the state.
Earlier in a good will messages, the General Manager Ekiti State Water Corporation, Mrs Olabisi Agbeyo was of the view that the regulatory agency would ensure public safety, wellbeing and meet people’s rightful expectations.
One of those who received license on the occasion and a representative of ikun dairy farm, Mr olugbenga Dada promised to make best use of the opportunity.