FG grants water use licenses to BUA Cement, Penstock

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Integrated Water Resources Management Commission (NIWRMC), has granted Water Use Licences to BUA Cement and Penstock Energy Limited.

Speaking during the presentation ceremony in Abuja on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, the NIWRMC Acting Executive Director, Sakinatu Jimeta, urged the companies to use the licences as specified in the terms and conditions.

Jimeta, who stated that the licences would be revalidated every two years, noted that the commission would ensure supervision of the companies.

The Director of Allocation and Authorisation at NIWRMC, Uba Ajingi, said the commission issued licences to ensure equitable water allocation for hydropower, irrigation schemes, and water supply.

According to him, this is based on catchment availability to avoid conflicts and ensure sustainability.

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Speaking, the Social Performance Specialist at BUA Cement, Rabiu Maska, and the Senior Manager of Legal and Regulatory at Penstock Energy Limited, Pamela Gold, expressed gratitude to the commission for granting the licences and pledged to abide by the terms of the agreement.

NIWRMC was established in May 2007 following a Federal Government Public Reforms Committee.

The commission’s objective is to regulate, protect, conserve, and control water sources for equitable socio-economic development.

NIWRMC has revalidated 50 licences for bulk water users under current regulations.

The commission is saddled with the responsibility of monitoring the activities of the licensees to ensure compliance with licence terms.

The Star