Lagos launches 5-year plan to overhaul wastewater management
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) has announced an ambitious five-year Strategic Action Plan set to revolutionise wastewater management in Lagos from 2025 to 2030.
Jointly developed with USAID and the Lagos Urban Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (LUWASH) initiative, the plan aims to enhance public health, promote environmental sustainability, and raise the overall quality of life for Lagos residents.
At the unveiling during the recent Safely Managed Sanitation (SMS) Conference at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Engr. Adefemi Afolabi, General Manager of LSWMO, underscored the significance of the initiative.
“This plan is a clear demonstration of our commitment to improving sanitation in Lagos. By working closely with USAID and other partners, we will create an environment that prioritises public health, environmental protection, and economic growth,” he asserted.
The Strategic Action Plan, which aligns with the recently introduced Lagos WASH Policy 2024, outlines four pivotal objectives aimed at advancing wastewater management across the state.
Afolabi revealed that the initiative focuses on enhancing the efficiency of existing systems to keep pace with the city’s evolving demands while ensuring universal access to improved sanitation services, especially in underserved communities.
The General Manager highlighted the plan’s innovative approach to financing, stating, “The LSWMO will explore innovative revenue mechanisms to create a financially sustainable model for wastewater management in Lagos.
“Upgraded infrastructure will be deployed to mitigate the environmental impact of wastewater discharge, contributing to a cleaner, safer ecosystem.”
To make this vision a reality, the Lagos State government is actively seeking investment partnerships aimed at improving infrastructure and forging long-term solutions for the city’s wastewater challenges.
Afolabi also called for increased collaboration with the private sector to drive investment and innovation in wastewater solutions, positioning this critical sector as a catalyst for public health improvement and sustainable growth in Lagos.
