Engr. Apollos Samchi Champions Efficiency and Accessibility in Plateau State Water Sector
In a bid to foster stronger community ties and celebrate excellence among indigenes of Mangu Local Government Area, members of the Mangu Journalists Forum paid a courtesy visit to Engr. Apollos S. Samchi, FNMGS, FNSME, the Director General of the Jos Water Services Corporation, in his office in Jos. The visit was part of the Forum’s ongoing efforts to spotlight illustrious sons and daughters of Mangu who are contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of the state and the nation at large.
Speaking during the visit, the Chairman of the Forum, Mr. Isaac Dachen said the group’s initiative is aimed at promoting the image of Mangu Local Government and highlighting impact-driven personalities who have distinguished themselves in public service and leadership. He commended Engr. Samchi for his visionary leadership and notable achievements in repositioning the water sector in Plateau State, describing him as a worthy ambassador of Mangu whose efforts continue to reflect excellence and integrity.
In his remarks, Engr. Samchi expressed deep appreciation for the visit, describing it as heartwarming that professionals from Mangu could unite under one platform to celebrate their own. He enlightened the visitors on the structure and operations of the Jos Water Services Corporation, which was established under the Plateau State Water and Sanitation Sector Reform Law of 2019. The law, he explained, restructured the state’s water management system into three main agencies: the Jos Water Services Corporation, Lamuasa, and the Plateau State Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (PRUWASA). He further noted that while the Plateau State Water Regulatory Commission is yet to take off, the law provides a solid framework for effective coordination and service delivery across the sector.
Speaking on the activities of the Corporation, Engr. Apollos Samchi highlighted several ongoing projects and reforms aimed at improving water access and service delivery in Plateau State. He explained that the Corporation has extended water supply to hard-to-reach communities, particularly in rocky and inaccessible areas, through the use of tankers and community-based distribution systems. In some cases, residents receive water at minimal cost or entirely free of charge. He also noted the rehabilitation of the Corporation’s headquarters, which was previously in poor condition, to a modern standard befitting of an agency that partners with international organizations such as the World Bank and other development agencies. These efforts, he said, are part of his commitment to ensuring that the Corporation operates efficiently and reflects global best practices.
He further disclosed that the executive governor of Plateau State, his excellency, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang had approved the recruitment of 100 new staff to boost efficiency, noting that he deliberately prioritized the employment of technically skilled workers such as diploma holders and trade-test graduates to meet the mechanical demands of the Corporation. Engr. Samchi revealed that rehabilitation works had been carried out in two major water treatment plants to ensure clean and accessable water in the state. All thanks to governor Mutfwang. He expressed optimism that with sustained government backing, strategic management, and continued community support, the Corporation will keep expanding its reach and improving access to clean water for the people of Plateau State.