…As WaterAid Targets 10M Residents with WASH Solutions by 2028
The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with WaterAid, private operators, and development partners, has announced plans to construct 350 additional public toilets across the state. This initiative aims to curb widespread open defecation and promote better hygiene and sanitation.
During a media roundtable over the weekend, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser on Environment, confirmed that work has already commenced, including site selection for the facilities.
According to a statement released on Sunday by Kunle Adeshina, Director of Public Affairs, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Rotimi-Akodu outlined the government’s three-pronged strategy to address open defecation: infrastructure development, advocacy, and enforcement.
He emphasized that expanding public toilet access would reduce both government and individual healthcare costs, as fewer people would suffer from waterborne diseases. He acknowledged minor delays in execution due to efforts to secure alternative water sources, rather than relying on boreholes.
“Borehole drilling is not a sustainable solution, and the government is actively working on providing potable water through the Lagos Water Corporation,” he stated.
State’s Water Supply Efforts
Rotimi-Akodu highlighted Lagos State’s commitment to improving water supply, revealing that the Adiyan Waterworks project is expected to generate at least 100 million gallons of potable water daily.
Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, pointed out that many households and organizations are using state-provided water without payment, creating financial strain on water infrastructure. He stressed that water supply would no longer be free, and discussions are ongoing regarding tariff structures.
“We have regulatory agencies handling pricing discussions, and private-sector participation is key,” Adegbite noted. “The state and its partners have already invested billions into water infrastructure, and we expect residents to contribute.”
Adegbite also raised concerns about illegal water tapping, which negatively impacts the Lagos Water Corporation’s operations.
WaterAid’s Contribution to WASH Initiatives
Dr. Adebayo Alao, State Programme Lead for WaterAid Lagos, shared the organization’s ambitious goal to reach 10 million residents directly and another 17 million indirectly with improved Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) access by 2028.
He highlighted WaterAid’s partnerships, including a $1 million donation from Kimberly-Clark (2021–2025) targeting 45,000 lactating mothers, adolescent girls, and vulnerable populations in Ojodu and Ikorodu North.
Among WaterAid’s key achievements:
Renovation of two primary health centers in Ogba and Odo-Nla, equipped with modern sanitation facilities and medical equipment worth over ₦30 million.
Supporting Lagos State in reviewing its WASH Policy.
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Conducting technical assessments of several non-functional waterworks, leading to ongoing rehabilitation at Akilo Water Works.
Ongoing Infrastructure Development
Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Gaji Omobolaji, assured residents that Lagos State is working towards comprehensive water coverage across all regions. He stated that massive rehabilitation is underway for major, mini, and micro waterworks to meet growing demand.
“Before the end of this administration, we aim to provide hundreds of millions of gallons of water daily. While this may not be enough, it’s a significant step toward universal water access,” he added.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure and ensuring sustainable water supply through strategic investments and collaborations.
