Communities benefiting from the Federal Government/International Fund for Agricultural Development (FG/IFAD) Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) in Niger State have been cautioned against carrying out unauthorized repairs on faulty solar-powered boreholes.
The communities were warned that such actions could lead to prolonged breakdowns and compromise water supply.
The warning was given during a training on the constitution and strengthening of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Committees for water supply involving beneficiaries from nine participating local governments held in Bida and Lavun areas of the state.
Speaking, the Niger State VCDP Irrigation Engineer, Engr. Elisha John, described the water pump as the most sensitive component of the borehole system and advised communities to seek professional help whenever faults occur.
He warned that some repairers could replace original solar pumps with substandard parts, citing cases in Lavun and Guzzan communities where faulty pumps had remained out of service following improper handling.
John also urged beneficiaries to preserve maintenance tools provided to them and to take responsibility for the facilities to ensure they remain functional after the programme exits.
A facilitator, Engr. Daniel Shaba, who trained participants on preventive and corrective maintenance of boreholes, warned that poor sanitation around water sources could expose communities to diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea.
He advised residents against washing clothes, processing cassava or rice and dumping waste close to boreholes, saying contaminants could seep into groundwater and affect water quality.
Some beneficiaries said the training had improved their knowledge of managing the facilities.
Sheki Mohammed from Lavun said his committee would ensure proper procedures are followed when handling issues involving control panels, pumps and wiring.
Fatima Jibrin from Mokwa said the training had equipped participants with the knowledge needed to address minor challenges instead of waiting for officials to intervene, while Zakari Hussani from Borgu said he had gained knowledge on maintaining the facility and generating income from water sales.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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