LSWMO, JICA PUSH FOR INTEGRATED WASTEWATER INFRASTRUCTURE IN LAGOS
In a renewed push to strengthen wastewater management systems in Lagos, the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) has engaged the Japan International Cooperation Agency Survey Team to advance a comprehensive model for wastewater infrastructure development, focusing on system integration, efficiency and long-term urban resilience.
During a high-level meeting with the team at LSWMO Headquarters in Ikeja, the General Manager, LSWMO, Engr. Adefemi Afolabi, described the Agency as an integral component of the State’s environmental architecture, playing a critical role in reducing pollution and safeguarding public health.
According to him, LSWMO as an institution of the State Government where policies, programmes, and initiatives on wastewater are implemented, coordinated and effectively regulated is at the forefront of driving sustainable wastewater solutions in line with global best practices.
While taking the team through the Agency’s operational framework, Engr. Afolabi highlighted significant milestones recorded in recent years, including improved regulatory oversight, expansion of wastewater treatment systems and increased stakeholder engagement across the value chain.
Explaining that the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017 provides the statutory backing for LSWMO’s operations, the General Manager pointed out that the Lagos State Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Policy 2024, gives a clear direction for both state and non-state actors, ensuring a unified approach to water sector development.
The State WASH Policy in particular, identifies critical gaps in the wastewater sector and outlines a comprehensive framework for policy implementation, execution of key projects and institutional capacity along with their targets and deliverables with periodic review.
Speaking on the investment drive of the government in facilitating private sector participation in key wastewater infrastructure projects, Engr. Afolabi affirmed that Lagos, as a rapidly growing megacity with increasing pressure on its infrastructure, presents significant opportunities for investors to explore.
“Unlocking investment opportunities and improving service delivery across the State remains a top priority of the government. We have continued to create an enabling environment for private sector participation through the State Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) system. The Office of Public-Private Partnerships provides a robust regulatory and institutional framework that supports investors, safeguards infrastructure assets, and ensures the protection of investments and returns on investment.”
Across the wastewater management value chain, the Agency continues to explore innovative solutions, including brownfield and greenfield projects, to expand infrastructure capacity and create viable investment opportunities capable of boosting revenue generation for the State.
He expressed appreciation to JICA for its continued investment and technical support in the environmental sector, acknowledging that the support and intervention of development partners are essential to achieving long-term sustainability goals.
In his remarks, the JICA Team Lead, Mr. Teketoshi Fujiyama, commended LSWMO for its systematic and policy-driven approach to wastewater management, describing it as a strong foundation for scalable infrastructure development.
While seeking deeper insights into the Agency’s current operations, plans, and inter-agency coordination mechanisms, he noted that such engagements would help identify priority areas for technical support, capacity development and integrated infrastructure planning.
He disclosed that JICA is currently collaborating on water-related projects with the African Development Bank and other partners, including the EU Waterworks initiatives in select Nigerian communities.
“JICA is exploring modalities with relevant stakeholders to improve water supply and distribution networks across Lagos, while also considering the integration of wastewater management systems into broader urban water planning”, he added.
Mr. Fujiyama further emphasised the importance of embedding wastewater solutions into existing and future infrastructure projects, noting that sustainable urban development cannot be achieved without a holistic approach to water resource management.
He acknowledged the detailed PPP model of the State, adding that such a framework will attract investors, ensure operational efficiency, and guarantee the long-term viability of wastewater projects in Lagos State.
In attendance at the meeting were Mr. Noboru Osakabe and Ms. Blessing Ahamba from JICA; Representative of the Lagos Water Corporation, Engr. Saheed Olatunji and Top Management Staff of LSWMO.
More photos below.
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