A former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Gbenga Hashim, has inaugurated a N22 million water intervention project in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), beginning with the commissioning of a solar-powered borehole in New Jerusalem, a densely populated community in Bwari Area Council.
Speaking at the event, Hashim said the project, executed through the Gbenga Hashim Foundation, is aimed at addressing persistent water shortages affecting residents. He stressed that access to clean and safe water is a basic necessity that should be available to all communities.
He revealed that the New Jerusalem borehole project was completed for N5.6 million and forms part of a broader N22 million intervention spanning the six area councils of the FCT. According to him, plans are already underway to replicate similar projects in other underserved communities.
Hashim noted that the foundation’s interventions are driven by a commitment to improving the living conditions of vulnerable Nigerians, particularly those in neglected rural and peri-urban areas.
He added that the initiative would soon expand beyond the FCT to northern states, targeting communities affected by insecurity and displacement.
The PDP stalwart urged residents of New Jerusalem to take ownership of the facility and ensure its proper maintenance for long-term benefit.
He also lamented what he described as years of neglect by successive governments, noting that many communities across the country still lack access to basic amenities such as potable water, good roads, and healthcare services.
Highlighting past efforts, Hashim said the foundation has executed several projects nationwide, including road construction, educational support, and ICT training programs for youths.
He cited the success story of a beneficiary who rose to become one of the youngest female state legislators in Nigeria as evidence of the impact of sustained human capital development.
Dignitaries at the event included the FCT Chairman of the PDP, Alhaji Ismail Mohammed Dogara, party officials in the Bwari Area Council, ward representatives, and other stakeholders, alongside community leaders and residents.
Residents of New Jerusalem expressed appreciation for the intervention, noting that the project would significantly ease water scarcity and improve sanitation and public health in the area.
