The Kwara State Government has reiterated its commitment to collaborating with groups, individuals, and organizations to enhance access to essential services and promote infrastructural development.

Speaking at the launch of 10 motorized boreholes facilitated by the Bank of Industry (BoI) and the Kehinde Alex Bankole (KAB) Foundation on Monday in Ekan, Oke Ero Local Government Area, Deputy Governor Mr. Kayode Alabi emphasized that access to clean water is a fundamental right.

The boreholes, distributed across the council's ten political wards, aim to provide sustainable access to clean water for residents. The Deputy Governor highlighted the global and local challenges communities face in accessing basic necessities like water and commended the collaborative efforts to address these needs.

He expressed hope that the boreholes would alleviate the common water scarcity in the locality and improve the health, hygiene, and overall quality of life of residents in the communities.

“Our administration will continue to welcome initiatives and partnerships that will increase access to essential services and infrastructural development in the state,” he added.

He, however, appreciated the KAB Foundation and the BoI for the “generous support and partnership” in this project, saying: “Your contribution has been invaluable, and we appreciate your commitment to the well-being of these communities.”

The major facilitator, Prince Kehinde Alex Bankole said the initiative was a substantial milestone in his ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life for the rural community, “particularly for our children, ensuring they have the necessary resources to thrive.

“As a Prince of this esteemed town and as an individual dedicated to the development of our local communities, I have consistently upheld the belief that true progress is measured not by personal success but by our contributions to the welfare of those around us.

“The Kehinde Alex Bankole Foundation, which I have the privilege of leading, is driven by this core mission — to foster lasting, positive change for the people of Kwara State, particularly in our rural areas.

“One of the most pressing challenges faced by many rural communities, including those in Oke-Ero, is access to clean and safe water. This issue is especially critical within our schools, where children—who are our future leaders—must have access to potable water for drinking, sanitation, and hygiene. The lack of this fundamental necessity jeopardizes the health and well-being of our students and educators, resulting in a continuous struggle for effective learning,” he stated.

Describing water as vital, he said it is an essential component of health, growth, and progress, “Clean water enables our children to study in hygienic conditions; it supports the tireless efforts of our educators, who are committed to fostering intellectual growth.

“Furthermore, it empowers our schools to function efficiently and create an environment conducive to educational achievement.

“These 10 motorized boreholes are not mere resolution to a water crisis; they symbolise hope and act as catalysts for progress.

“They exhibit the commitment of the KAB Foundation to the advancement of Oke-Ero and the well-being of its residents. By providing reliable access to clean water, these boreholes will serve our schools and, by extension, the surrounding communities, thereby alleviating the daily struggle for water access,” he noted.

Meanwhile, aside from the Anglican Primary School, Ekan Meje where the event was held, other beneficiaries are Orota Grammar School, Odo Owa; Iloffa Grammar School, Iloffa; Agbale Community School, Imoji and St. Paul Primary School, Idofin-Igbanna.

Others are ECWA Primary School, Idofin-Ase; Ayedun Community; Obaji Comprehensive School; Imode Primary School and Egosi Community School.