In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Six, the Lagos State Government has introduced a new Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) policy to enhance access to clean water and sanitation across the state.
Presented during an event commemorating the 2024 World Water Day with the theme “Water for Peace,” the Lagos State WASH policy was developed with technical support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the USAID/Nigeria Lagos Urban Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (LUWASH) Activity.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized the policy’s significance as a guiding framework towards achieving universal access to clean water and sanitation.
“The comprehensive policy outlines strategies for water management, conservation, pollution prevention, and equitable distribution, reflecting our administration’s commitment to leave no one behind in the quest for water security and peace,” the commissioner said.
“The ongoing LUWASH project, supported by USAID, exemplifies our government’s dedication to promoting water security and sustainability in urban areas,” he added.
News.ng gathered that the project includes initiatives such as rehabilitating micro/mini water works for the Lagos Water Corporation (LWC), capacity building for the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO), and supporting the development of a business case for the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO).
Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation Joseph Utsev, represented by Permanent Secretary Aliyu Shinkafi, highlighted the significance of access to clean water in addressing inequality, conflict, and instability.
Utsev emphasized the power of water as a catalyst for cooperation, collaboration, and peace-building, stressing the need for inclusive governance structures, integrated water resource management, and investments in water infrastructure and technology.
James Racicot, LUWASH Chief of Party, outlined the objectives of the LUWASH activity, including strengthening governance, increasing access to safe water services, and improving the quality of source water.
“LUWASH aims to enhance public and private service provider performance, increase access to safe and sustainable water services, and improve the quality of source water through capacity building and rehabilitation initiatives,” he stated.
Recall that Governor Sanwo-Olu took centre stage at global climate forums #COP28 and #UNClimateSummit, rallying international support for urgent action to address the water shortage crisis gripping Nigeria’s most populous city.
With a population of 22 million, Lagos faces a staggering daily demand of 700 million gallons of water yet needs to meet even 210 million due to critical infrastructure deficiencies.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the issue is not merely a social service concern but a pressing economic necessity vital for public health and sustainable development.
