The Borehole Drillers Association of Nigeria (BODAN) and its Anambra State chapter have pledged to collaborate with the Anambra State Urban Water Asset Holdings Corporation (ASUWAHC) to improve water resource management and borehole drilling standards in the state.
This commitment was made during a stakeholders’ meeting at the ASUWAHC Conference Hall in Awka, attended by representatives of BODAN at both the national and state levels, along with ASUWAHC officials.
ASUWAHC Managing Director, Hon. Ikeobi Ejiofor, stated that the meeting was convened in response to a request from BODAN, emphasizing its importance in strengthening water supply management in Anambra. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to regulating water resources and called on the association to provide documentation proving its legitimacy to facilitate a productive partnership.
National Chairman of BODAN, Mr. Solomon Edet, explained that the association operates under a dual legal framework, with national registration under the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and a state chapter recognized by the Ministry of Women Affairs. He noted that BODAN was officially inaugurated in Anambra in 2015 and has since contributed to capacity building, including training borehole drillers at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) on technical drilling procedures. The association has also collaborated with the Ministry of Water Resources on initiatives such as the World Water Day Campaign.
Edet highlighted BODAN’s efforts in supporting government regulations by submitting a bill to the Anambra State House of Assembly and maintaining a register of licensed borehole drillers. He stressed the need to adhere to the Standard Code of Practice for Borehole Drillers, which mandates physical surveys before drilling, safe distances from septic tanks and dumpsites, and water quality testing before consumption.
The Vice President of BODAN’s South-East region, His Royal Highness Dr. Uche Alugwo, stated that he has overseen the association’s activities for over a decade, ensuring professionalism and regulatory compliance.
The Chairman of the Borehole Drillers Association of Anambra State (BDAS), Mr. Patrick Effiom, noted that BDAS was registered with the CAC in 2009 to address industry challenges. He said the association aligns with the Anambra State Water Law 2015 and is working on a NIN-verified digital database for borehole drillers.
BDAS Financial Secretary, Mr. Collins Ekweali, emphasized the association’s role in resolving disputes between clients and non-member drillers. He added that BDAS obtained a court order from the Anambra State High Court to solidify its legal standing and introduced an educational radio program, *Bona Half Hour*, on ABS Radio to promote best drilling practices.
The meeting ended with the official submission of key regulatory documents, including by-laws, court orders, and licensing records, to ASUWAHC, marking the beginning of a structured partnership between both organizations.
