The Lagos State Government has organized a two-day stakeholders’ forum, sponsored by WaterAid Nigeria, to bring together investors, experts, CSOs, and community leaders as part of a pilot Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiative to increase access to safe, dependable water.
The event, which had as its theme “Attracting Investment for Improved Water Supply in Lagos State through Public-Private Partnership,” brought together a variety of stakeholders, including development partners, CSO partners, private investors, community leaders, and sector experts.
Officials emphasized that private sector cooperation is essential to attaining universal water access and attributed the action to growing demand, deteriorating infrastructure, and a lack of funding.
The PPP model will integrate private investment, creativity, and efficiency with government oversight. It will be tested through a few mini and micro waterworks.
Engr. Mukhtaar Tijani, MD of Lagos Water Corporation, stressed that the plan is not privatization but rather a means of increasing coverage, updating infrastructure, and cutting losses while protecting the public interest.
He said,”The decision to pilot the model through selected mini and micro waterworks is guided by the need to leverage private sector expertise, innovation, and funding to complement government investments, ensuring that water facilities are not only rehabilitated but also maintained to the highest standards.
“This phased approach is informed by a broader reform agenda that will place Lagos on a clear path toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, Clean Water and Sanitation for All”
The plan was well received by stakeholders, who demanded greater legal frameworks, sustainability, and transparency in order to draw in investment.
In order to ensure equitable distribution, particularly to underserved communities, the state reaffirmed its commitment to achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
