The study was motivated by the lots of programmes put in place and the colossal sum of money spent by government and other service providers to meet safe water requirements of the rural people, yet, not much is being achieved in that direction. The objectives of this study, therefore, were to identify the institutional framework for rural water management and the contributions of rural water end users in managing their water supply points. The study utilized both primary and secondary data sources. Using a purposive sampling technique, fifty (50) rural communities were identified and administered with structured questionnaire which were complemented with personal interviews, focus group discussion, field observations and measurements. The study findings revealed that institutional arrangements for operation and maintenance of water issues have been top-bottom management strategy as against the supply driven norm where end users determine the outcome decision on water issues. The study recommends a framework for the improvement of public participation in rural water management and measures needed to operate and maintain the available water supply points efficiently in the state in line with the determination of the present and subsequent governments’ drive to reduce poverty and enhance rural development. Above all, the study indicates that public participation in rural water resources management will not be successful without empowering the communities financially and educationally in order to become willing and informed participants in sustainable community development drive.