Oyo Water Corporation Makes Strides in Improving Supply Across Ibadan and Beyond

By Kazeem Awojoodu, Ibadan

State Government Invests in Infrastructure to Tackle Water Challenges

The Water Corporation of Oyo State has made significant progress in restoring and improving water supply to industries and residential areas across Ibadan and other major towns, according to its Chairman, Hon. Elias Adeojo. In an exclusive interview, Adeojo revealed how Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration has prioritized water infrastructure development, allocating crucial funds for equipment and materials to address longstanding supply issues.

“While we still have a long way to go, we’ve successfully restored water to numerous areas in Ibadan and key city centers like Eruwa and Oyo,” Adeojo stated. The chairman emphasized that quality control remains paramount, ensuring only clean, potable water reaches residents.

Residents Urged to Report Infrastructure Issues

The corporation has established dedicated hotlines (08155326750 and 08077033774) for residents to report pipe vandalism, leaks, and other water-related concerns. “Community participation is vital in protecting our infrastructure,” Adeojo stressed, highlighting how public cooperation can help maintain consistent water supply.

Electricity Woes and Infrastructure Damage Pose Challenges

Adeojo identified several obstacles hampering optimal water distribution:

• Unreliable electricity supply affecting pumping operations
• Widespread pipe vandalism
• Damage from road construction projects
• Aging water supply equipment

“Electricity remains our biggest challenge,” Adeojo admitted. “Without consistent power, we can’t pump water effectively, especially to Ibadan’s elevated areas.” The corporation has been working closely with the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) to find sustainable solutions.

Major Infrastructure Upgrade Underway

With recent government approvals, the corporation is procuring:

• New pumping equipment
• Replacement pipes
• Modern pipe fittings

“Our teams will soon begin comprehensive pipe repairs across Ibadan,” Adeojo announced. “Areas like Alakia, Olode, and Ogungbade already receive water directly from our main supply lines, and we’re expanding this network.”

Success Stories in Water Distribution

The chairman highlighted several operational waterworks:

• Asejire Waterworks: Now supplying parts of Ibadan after electrical reconnection
• Eleyele Waterworks: Functional but not at full capacity
• Erelu Waterworks (Oyo): Fully operational
• Eruwa and Ogbomoso: Receiving regular supply

Basorun and Bodija residents currently enjoy relatively stable water supply, with Adeojo commending these communities for consistently paying their water bills. “This revenue helps us maintain and expand services,” he noted.

Expansion Plans Across Oyo State

The corporation has ambitious plans to extend services to:

• Oketunu and Beere through new pipe installations
• Egbeda and Ona Ara Local Government Areas
• Oke-Bola, Jericho, and Mile 110 via the Eleyele dam system

“Our 40-million litre reservoir at Eleyele positions us well to serve these areas,” Adeojo explained. “We’ve already established standpipes in Ido as part of this expansion.”

Revenue Generation and Future Prospects

Beyond water bills, the corporation is exploring innovative revenue streams:

• Leasing unused corporation lands
• Implementing more efficient billing systems
• Partnering with commercial water users

“With improved services comes increased revenue potential,” Adeojo projected. “We aim to become one of Oyo State’s top IGR generators in coming years.”

Long-term Vision and Federal Collaboration

The corporation is exploring utilization of the Ikere Gorge Dam (managed by the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Commission) to supply Iseyin and surrounding communities. Other future initiatives include:

• Implementing marker posts to protect infrastructure
• Developing sustainable maintenance systems
• Expanding coverage to meet Governor Makinde’s water-for-all vision

Adeojo concluded with optimism: “Every day we’re making progress. With continued government support and public cooperation, Oyo State will overcome its water challenges.”

The chairman was accompanied during the briefing by key corporation officials including Coordinating Director Mrs. Roaques Sotunwa and Director of Commercial Services Mrs. Mabel Adegbenro.

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