The Lagos State Government has initiated a significant public-private partnership (PPP) to address the growing demand for clean and reliable water across the state.
In a two-day engagement organised by the Lagos Water Corporation with support from WaterAid Nigeria, government officials appealed to private investors to help upgrade some of its mini and micro waterworks.
The forum, themed “Attracting Investment for Improved Water Supply in Lagos State through Public-Private Partnership”, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including investors, community leaders, sector experts, and development partners.
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The primary goal was to formally announce the government’s plan to use PPPs to enhance water service delivery.
Rotimi Akodu, Special Adviser to the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, highlighted the initiative as a crucial step in meeting the water needs of a rapidly expanding population.
He noted that achieving universal access to clean water requires substantial capital and operational efficiency, which can be improved through strategic collaboration with the private sector.
Mahamood Adegbite, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, acknowledged the state’s progress in expanding water infrastructure but emphasised that challenges like ageing facilities and climate change necessitate innovative partnerships.
He stated that the government’s vision is to ensure an uninterrupted supply of clean water for all residents, and this partnership model is designed to create infrastructure that will last for future generations.
Omobolaji Gaji, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Services, stressed the urgency of the situation, citing a shortage of government funding and a reduction in foreign support.
He stated that partnering with the private sector is a timely and innovative solution to secure the necessary funds for this vital resource.
Mukhtaar Tijani, the Managing Director of the Lagos Water Corporation, explained that the PPP framework will combine public oversight with private sector innovation and investment to boost water production, reduce losses, and ensure efficient distribution, especially to underserved communities.
He clarified that the initiative is not an attempt to privatise water but rather a strategic collaboration to improve service quality and financial sustainability.
Tijani said that piloting the model with selected waterworks will allow the government to leverage private expertise and funding to rehabilitate and maintain facilities to a high standard.
He added that this phased approach is part of a broader reform agenda to help Lagos achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6, which focuses on clean water and sanitation for all.
The managing director assured stakeholders of a transparent procurement process and strong regulatory oversight to protect public interests.
He also noted that the PPP structure is designed to boost efficiency, minimise system losses, and ensure equitable water distribution.
Evelyn Mere, Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, praised the initiative and encouraged the government to scale up the Akilo water scheme management model.
She urged the state to create a favourable legal and regulatory environment to guarantee a return on investment for investors.
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Stakeholders at the meeting supported the government’s proactive approach and its decision to involve communities and private partners in the process.
The consensus at the end of the engagement was for a phased, evidence-based implementation of the PPP model, supported by strong monitoring and ongoing dialogue with all parties.
