Navy Commissions 35,000-Litre Solar Water Project to Boost Community Development in Niger
The Nigerian Navy has commissioned a 35,000-litre solar-powered water project in Muye Community, Lapai Local Government Area of Niger State, as part of efforts to strengthen civil-military relations and support sustainable community development.
The project, executed under the Chief of the Naval Staff’s Quick Impact Project initiative, comprises a 35,000-litre elevated water storage tank, an industrial solar-powered borehole and an extensive water reticulation system designed to provide residents with reliable access to clean and potable water.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Project Facilitator and Commandant of the Naval War College Nigeria, Rear Admiral Muhammed Adamu Muye, described the initiative as more than the delivery of physical infrastructure, saying it symbolises hope, dignity and improved quality of life for the people.
He explained that the project reflects the Nigerian Navy’s conviction that lasting security cannot be achieved through military operations alone but also through deliberate investments in the welfare and well-being of communities.
Muye said the Chief of the Naval Staff introduced the Quick Impact Project in 2024 to enable senior officers of the Navy to execute community-based interventions that complement government development efforts while strengthening civil-military cooperation.
According to him, access to clean water remains one of the most basic human needs and the project was conceived to address the persistent challenge of potable water supply in the community.
“The integrated solar-powered borehole, 35,000-litre overhead storage facility and water reticulation network have been deliberately designed to provide a sustainable and environmentally friendly solution capable of serving this community for many years.
“If this project helps reduce water-borne diseases, eases the burden on women and children who travel long distances in search of water, supports healthcare delivery and promotes economic activities, then its purpose has been achieved,” he said.
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He urged community leaders and residents to protect the facility from vandalism and establish effective maintenance mechanisms to ensure its sustainability for future generations.
The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, who was represented by the Director of Veteran Affairs, Naval Headquarters, Rear Admiral Raheem Taofeek, said the project underscores the Navy’s commitment to supporting national development beyond its constitutional responsibility of protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain.
He noted that the Quick Impact Project was launched in 2024 as part of the Navy’s revitalised Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) strategy to contribute to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to him, the initiative also provides an opportunity for accomplished senior naval officers to give back to their communities through impactful development projects.
Taofeek described the Muye water scheme as another landmark in the Navy’s civil-military cooperation efforts, saying it would significantly improve the quality of life of residents while strengthening trust between the military and host communities.
He commended Rear Admiral Muye for successfully completing the project and urged beneficiaries to use and maintain the facility responsibly to ensure its longevity.
The senior naval officer also appealed to residents of Niger State to continue supporting the Nigerian Navy, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies through cooperation and the provision of credible information to enhance national security.
Community leaders and traditional rulers at the event expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for bringing the life-changing project to Muye, describing it as a timely intervention that would improve public health, reduce hardship and stimulate socio-economic activities in the area.
PRNigeria reports that the project formed part of the Nigerian Navy’s broader efforts to strengthen civil-military relations by implementing community-oriented projects that complement security operations and promote sustainable development across the country.
By PRNigeria
