Editor
By Fatima Saka
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to advancing sustainable solutions in the water sector for the benefit of Lagos residents.
Sanwo-Olu made this pledge during the official inauguration and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Lagos Water Partnership and the Resilient Water Accelerator in Lagos.
As conveyed in a statement by Mr. Kunle Adeshina, Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Sanwo-Olu expressed his belief that Lagos holds significant potential for maximizing the value and opportunities presented by its water resources.
The governor acknowledged the global challenges faced by the water resources sector, particularly in light of the impacts of climate change. Despite these challenges, Lagos remains steadfast in its commitment to establishing a water-safe city that ensures access to clean water for all residents.
Sanwo-Olu outlined various initiatives aimed at achieving this goal, including the revitalization of water delivery facilities, the clearance of blockades from wetlands and canals to mitigate flood risks, and the enhancement of coastal communities’ resilience against climate impacts.
Emphasizing the need for substantial investments to realize these objectives, the governor highlighted the pivotal role of the private sector in complementing public sector efforts towards a comprehensive water solution for Lagos residents.
Sanwo-Olu underscored the timeliness of establishing the Lagos Water Partnership, which is poised to lead the development and implementation of an investment vision for water security in Lagos. This platform will bring together key public and private stakeholders to strategize, collaborate, and drive progress.
The governor stressed that the partnership will focus on evidence-based decision-making, targeted capacity development, and the establishment of systems to attract large-scale investments. Additionally, it will serve as a consultative forum connecting private sector entities with government officials and policymakers.
In his earlier remarks, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, highlighted the ongoing focus of the Lagos State Government on investing in and developing the water sector.
Wahab emphasized the importance of partnerships, collaborations, and alliances in overcoming resource constraints and addressing urban needs effectively. He noted that the establishment of the Lagos Water Partnership, in collaboration with the Resilient Water Accelerator, aligns perfectly with the LASG’s vision of leveraging partnerships to enhance environmental and water resources management.
Wahab reiterated that the Lagos Water Partnership aims to create a conducive environment for private investment to complement public resources and unite key stakeholders from both sectors. The ministry has worked to create an enabling environment to attract partners and forge strategic alliances.
