The Plateau State Government has reiterated its dedication to ensuring the availability of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services for its residents. The Accountant-General of the state, Mrs. Naanret Manset, emphasized this commitment during a meeting with officials from the World Bank and the Federal Program Implementation Unit of the NG-SURWASH Program at her office in the JD Gomwalk Secretariat, Jos.
Mrs. Manset assured the delegation that the government remains committed to timely disbursement of funds approved under the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) Program. She acknowledged the financial constraints faced by the state and highlighted the government’s prioritization strategy, stating, “What you need now has always been my response to the PC, given our limited resources and other competing demands.”
Addressing concerns about the budget gap for the Plateau State Ministry of Water Supply and Sanitation (PLAMWASSA), she pledged to engage with the Permanent Secretary and the Budget Ministry to find a resolution. Additionally, she assured the team that she would follow up on securing a letter of commitment from the Executive Governor to ensure its timely release.
Earlier in the meeting, the Co-Task Team Leader of NG-SURWASH, Mrs. Judith Ibiada Warmate, commended the Executive Governor for his dedication to the program’s implementation. She also praised the teamwork exhibited by the Plateau State Implementing Agencies (IAs), explaining that their visit aimed to assess the state’s preparedness for the 2025 work plan and financial analysis.
Mrs. Warmate noted that Plateau State had submitted results for project works and expressed hope that they would meet the two-cycle verification process required for funding disbursement. However, she raised concerns about the significant budget gap in PLAMWASSA’s financial plan, warning that the World Bank might not approve the work plan unless the shortfall was addressed.
She urged the Accountant-General to advocate for the necessary financial support, emphasizing the urgency of securing funding to prevent delays in the program’s implementation. “We are working tirelessly to ensure that participating states can finance their budgets. However, the financial gap in PLAMWASSA’s budget presents a major risk. We appeal to you to make a strong case on their behalf,” she stated.
The meeting underscored the Plateau State Government’s determination to enhance water supply and sanitation services while navigating financial challenges to ensure sustainable progress in the sector.
