The Oyo State Government has established standardised regulations and fixed a control price of N14,000 per meter for the drilling of groundwater abstraction, commonly known as borehole drinking water, across the state.

The state Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abdulmojeed Mogbonjubola, disclosed this during an interactive meeting between the ministry and stakeholders in groundwater abstraction, held at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, on Thursday.

Mogbonjubola, in a statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Dotun Oyelade in Ibadan, said the stakeholders? meeting was convened to address the challenges faced by groundwater abstraction practitioners and develop collaborative solutions for the sustainable management of this vital resource.

He further noted that engaging with industry stakeholders is crucial to bringing sanity to the system and ensuring a balanced approach that benefits both drilling rig owners and middle-level practitioners.

He stated, ?One of the key agendas of the present administration, led by Governor Seyi Makinde, is to provide potable water to the citizens of Oyo State using every feasible strategy.

?This is why the government has created a favorable environment for individuals who can afford to drill boreholes in their communities.?

In his welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Sunday Ojelabi, stressed the significance of water provision.

Ojelabi urged stakeholders to align with the Governor Makinde-led administration?s efforts, emphasising the need for seamless operations within the sector to enhance service delivery and ensure compliance with the new regulatory framework.

?Water is life, and those who provide water bring life. This meeting serves as a unique platform for collective brainstorming to support the people of the state.?

An expert, Ajayi Richard, revealed that 23 companies are currently in partnership with the ministry, with 12 active drilling machines promoting the profession.

The event had in attendance Kolawole Olayinka, Chairman, Association of Water Well Drilling Rig Owners and Practitioners, Prof. Christopher Adeigbe, Chairman, Nigeria Mining & Geosciences Society, Ajibola Anjoyin. (PUNCH)

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