As part of efforts to improve the living conditions of the people in the state, British America Tobacco Foundation, BATN, has donated a solar-powered borehole worth 5 million naira to Liman Katagum community in Bauchi State.

Executive Director of the Foundation, Mr. Gbenga Ibikunle, speaking during the commissioning of the borehole in Bauchi, said: “It is only when people are able to access safe drinking water that they can be healthy enough to contribute meaningfully to the society.”

He said the foundation decided to turn the search- light of its project to rural communities because most people in the rural communities are usually prone to water-borne diseases.

He said that BATN has ensured that the founda-tion’s humanitarian activities spread across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria, adding that already, the foundation had established over 90 communities development projects in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

He, however, called on Mararaba Liman Katagum community to take special care of the facility and treat it as their own, adding that any form of vandalisation and careless handling must be resisted.

Governor responds

Speaking during the commissioning ceremony, the Bauchi State Governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Phar. Bukar Bukata Bayaro, said that Bauchi State Government has awarded 200 million naira for the construction of water projects throughout the state.

He said the administration of Mallam Ia Yuguda will continue to give greater priority to rural development through the provision of portable drinking water.

Bukar called on other NGO’s philanthropist and good spirited individuals to emulate the BATN foundation by contributing meaningfully to rural development.

The commissioner who congratulated the people of Liman Mararabe community for the solar borehole donated to them, warned the village heads of the community to see to it that they caution the people not to allow any disgruntled elements to vandalize the facility donated to them.