By Sodiq Adelakun
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Friday inaugurated the fully rehabilitated Akilo Mini Waterworks in Ogba, describing the project as a crucial step toward expanding access to safe and reliable potable water across Lagos State.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, the governor emphasised that access to clean water is a basic human right and central to the well-being of citizens.
“Water is fundamental to life, and the revival of mini waterworks alongside major water infrastructure projects ensures more communities enjoy sustainable water supply,” he said.
The upgraded Akilo facility is expected to serve residents in Ogba, Agege, and Ogudu, delivering on the administration’s promise under the THEMES Plus agenda to improve living standards through strategic investments in water, sanitation, and environmental health.
Sanwo-Olu praised the role of development partners, including WaterAid, in turning “words into action” and highlighted plans to expand the initiative to seven additional mini waterworks using public-private partnership models.
He said the strategy aims to reduce Lagos’ heavy reliance on boreholes, which threaten the city’s aquifers.
The governor also referenced long-term projects like Adiyan Phase I and II, which are expected to provide a combined 140 million gallons of water daily, supporting the needs of Lagos’ rapidly growing population.
Stressing sustainability, Sanwo-Olu urged residents to protect the infrastructure, avoid vandalising pipelines, and refrain from tampering with water meters to ensure continuity of service.
Linking the intervention to broader national goals, he noted Lagos’ commitment to the federal government’s WASH agenda and Sustainable Development Goal Six, pledging to lift the SDGs “one by one” through community-centered solutions.
The governor also reassured Lagosians of improved traffic management and security during the festive season, citing the newly opened Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and enhanced police deployment in collaboration with federal agencies.
