Enugu — THE European Commission is to provide N203 million to the Enugu State Government for the execution of rural water projects in the state.

The state Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr. Chuks Ugwoke, who made the disclosure while briefing newsmen at the end of the State Executive Council meeting in Enugu, said that the Commission would provide the funds under its water aid facility programme.

Ugwoke announced that already, the State Executive Council had approved the payment of N25 million as its counterpart contribution for the projects in three local government areas of the state.

According to Mr. Ugwoke, the benefiting council areas and communities are Idoha and Uwelu in Igbo Etiti, Nomeh and Okeani/Aniyi in Nkanu East, Imilike Enu and Iheakpu Obollo Afor in Udenu council.

He also said that the three council areas would contribute a total of N50 million for the execution of the programme in their respective areas.

The Commissioner said that the council also constituted a nine-member executive council committee for the effective implementation of the urban water sector reform programme in the state.

Ugwoke explained that the Committee headed by the Secretary to the state government, Mr. Martin Ilo, would ensure that the World Bank sponsored water project was executed to improve urban water service delivery in Enugu and Nsukka urban areas of the state.

According to the Commissioner, the Executive Council meeting chaired by the State Governor, Mr. Sullivan Chime, also announced some programmes lined up for the celebration of the centenary anniversary of Enugu, the Coal City.

According to the programme approved by the council, December 12, will feature Mmanwu Festival, while on December 17, there will be a launching of the centenary commemorative stamps.