By Johnson Adebowale
After more than three decades of enduring crippling water scarcity, the people of Yanfiki, a rural community in Kano State, have finally witnessed a life-changing breakthrough. For years, residents trekked miles daily in search of water, often paying exorbitant prices for supplies that were frequently unsafe, risking their health and well-being.
“Sometimes we hid the water from visitors because it was too dirty to share,” recalls Mallam Abdullahi Garuba, a long-time Yanfiki resident. “Today, we have clean water right here in our village, and it’s a miracle.”
On June 24, 2025, hope literally flowed into Yanfiki as the BATN Foundation officially commissioned a solar-powered water facility capable of storing 20,000 litres. For the first time in living memory, five new taps gush clean, safe water, signalling a new era of health, dignity, and opportunity for the entire community.
Hundreds of villagers—men, women, and children—gathered to celebrate the momentous occasion. The air was filled with joyous dancing, cheers, and heartfelt prayers as water streamed freely from the taps. This event was more than just the unveiling of infrastructure; it was the fulfilment of a long-held dream and a testament to resilience.
Key dignitaries graced the occasion, including Alhaji Umar Haruna Doguwa, Commissioner of Water Resources, who lauded the foundation’s commitment and reiterated government support for rural development. Eng. Yusif M. Inuwa, Director of Water, highlighted the project’s technical excellence and sustainability. Traditional leaders such as Hashimu Sulaiman of Gari and Wakili Bashir Wada, representing the Magajin Garin Kano, blessed the community, while representatives from the BATN Foundation, local authorities, and media witnessed the historic moment.
Alhaji Nasiru Wada, Board Director of BATN Foundation, emphasised the importance of eco-friendly solutions: “This solar-powered borehole not only provides clean water but also promotes renewable energy that supports our climate goals.”
The facility is equipped with four 400W solar panels, a water management kiosk, five dispensing taps, a submersible pump, a manual hand pump for cloudy days, and a protective fence. Yet, beyond the technology, what stood out was the community’s palpable sense of ownership and responsibility.
“This is your project,” urged Foundation representatives. “Own it, maintain it, and let it serve generations to come. No child should miss school because of water shortages. No mother should fear illness from contaminated streams.”
By the end of the day, a local water committee was formed to oversee the facility’s sustainability. Elders blessed the taps, children played joyfully, and women expressed relief after decades of hardship.
Mallam Abdullahi summed up the community’s joy: “We never thought this would happen in our lifetime. Today, Allah has blessed Yanfiki, and we are forever grateful.”
The event closed with a symbolic ribbon-cutting, heartfelt prayers, and a collective vow to preserve this vital resource for generations to come.
This project is part of the BATN Foundation’s broader mission to uplift rural communities, improve health and environmental resilience, and promote sustainable development across Nigeria. Yanfiki’s story stands as a shining example of how innovation, partnership, and community spirit can transform lives and bring hope where it is needed most.