By Umar Egbunu Muhammed, Lafia
Residents of Kertyo in Obi Local Government Area of Nasarawa State have raised alarm over acute water scarcity, calling on state authorities and prominent sons and daughters to prioritize the provision of potable water in the community.
The plea was made during a peace meeting convened to deliberate on issues affecting the growth, unity, and development of the Tiv community in the state. The gathering also provided a platform for stakeholders to chart a common path toward the progress of Kertyo and surrounding areas.
Speaking to reporters, Dr. Felix Upav-Saaior, a lecturer at the Federal University of Lafia, explained that the meeting aimed to unite Tiv residents in Nasarawa State to reflect on challenges confronting the community, including security and basic infrastructure.
“Once in a while, as a community, it is imperative that we come together to reflect on our corporate existence, identify areas where we are lagging, and find solutions,” Dr. Upav-Saaior said. “Being an agrarian society, most communities in Kertyo face insecurity due to clashes between herders and farmers. But today, our focus is on water scarcity.”
He emphasized the urgency of the problem, highlighting that Kertyo, a community of over 10,000 people, lacks even a single government borehole. “This is a precarious situation that threatens the survival of our people. We appeal to the authorities of Obi LGA, state government, NGOs, and corporate organizations to intervene,” he added.
Residents at the meeting expressed that access to clean water remains a significant challenge, limiting economic activity and daily survival. The lack of government infrastructure has further compounded their difficulties, leaving the community disadvantaged compared to others in the state.
Comrade Simeon-Apusu, President of the Tiv Development Association (TIDA), opened the session by emphasizing unity, cooperation, and collective responsibility among Tiv people in Nasarawa State. He stressed that the association is committed to promoting peace, socio-economic advancement, and mutual understanding among its members.
Jor Usa, a Kertyo resident, commended the association for creating a platform that encourages dialogue, unity, and community development. He urged Tiv sons and daughters to remain law-abiding and actively contribute to the welfare of the community, noting that unity is crucial for sustainable progress.
Thomas Asongu, a former secretary of the Obi Local Government Council, praised TIDA for organizing the meeting and urged residents to always respect constituted authorities.
The gathering also marked the formal inauguration of the Tiv Youth Organization (TYO) President, Hon. Atimism Philip, along with other executives of TIDA. The event underscored a renewed commitment to youth participation in community affairs and the promotion of purposeful leadership among younger generations.
Discussions at the meeting centered on socio-economic development, strategies for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, and addressing shared challenges facing Tiv communities. Participants concluded with a collective resolve to work together toward promoting unity, peace, and development across Nasarawa State.
Residents and stakeholders alike hope that the renewed focus on youth engagement, community dialogue, and advocacy will compel government authorities to prioritize critical needs such as clean water provision, while also fostering a spirit of cooperation and progress within the Tiv community.
