Enugu Secures $100M Austrian Deal to Revolutionize Water Infrastructure

The Enugu State Government through Governor Peter Mbah has signed an agreement with an Austrian firm, WANDE NEXUS, to implement the sustainable Last Mile Connectivity and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Project in Enugu.

The signing of documents took place yesterday (Monday) at the state house in Enugu, where Mbah explained that the project serves as an example of the relationship that could happen between a sub-sovereign and a sovereign, and a major step to getting water to the last mile in the City.

“We now have an investment of $100 million to address the last mile connection—the downstream part of our water system. This substantial investment demonstrates that the Federal Government’s economic reforms and our efforts to position Enugu as a premier investment destination are yielding results. This is a major FDI, not just for Enugu State but for the country as a whole,” Mbah stated.

Governor Mbah highlighted the concrete nature of the agreement, noting that it is not merely exploratory but rather a final deal ensuring immediate fund disbursement.

“This journey started eight months ago, transitioning from an MoU to a Term Sheet, and now to a Concession Agreement. Today, we signed the final agreement, and we expect the investment funds to start flowing immediately. Work on the last-mile connectivity and procurement of meters will commence promptly,” he added.

Mbah outlined the administration’s progress in water management, mentioning the remarkable increase in water production from an intermittent 2 million litres to 120 million litres daily. He acknowledged the need to expand the network and connect tertiary pipelines to homes.

“This $100 million investment will be focused on our downstream water sector, while the state government continues to manage the upstream sector. For 2025, we have budgeted funds specifically to boost water production capacity, with the aim of increasing daily production to 200 million litres,” he explained.

Governor Mbah’s efforts received praise from WANDE NEXUS representatives, who lauded his visionary leadership.

“I wish to commend His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his vision to transform water management systems in Enugu City, ensuring equitable access to clean water,” said a company representative.

The official also acknowledged Governor Mbah’s strong ties with Austria, noting his visits to Vienna and engagement with ministers, international organizations, and the business community.

“This $100 million investment is a testament to Governor Mbah’s outstanding leadership and vision for Enugu State,” the representative concluded.