The Northern Regional Minister, Mr Shani Alhassan Shaibu, has assured the people in the region that the government is committed to dealing with the problems of water and sanitation.
Addressing the Northern Regional Coordinating Council (NRCC), he said plans are advanced for the construction of a new water treatment plant on the White Volta at Yapei to be completed in 2040 at the cost of 272 million USD.
He further disclosed that before the project starts, the government has adopted immediate measures to restore and optimise existing facilities and provide free tanker services to communities that are seriously facing water crises.
On security, Mr Alhassan Shaibu described the region as one of the most peaceful in the country but condemned the use of AK47 Riffles during funerals and festivals.
He, however, commended the Dagbon Traditional Council for banning the act and tasked the Northern Regional Security Council (REGSEC) to enforce it.
Mr Alhassan Shaibu urged citizens, particularly politicians, to desist from inflammatory comments that can endanger peace and security.
He stated that NRCC had set up a committee to investigate and address the use of illicit drugs among children in the region.