Historic new partnership set up to transform water security for Lagos

Africa’s largest city takes a major step to ensure its historic growth is not held back by risks to water supply, as Lagos State government today launches a historic new initiative in partnership with investors, experts and policy makers to transform the city’s water security.  

The Lagos Water Partnership (LWP) collaborative platform will play a vital role in shaping the future of water management and access in the region. The LWP has been launched by the Resilient Water Accelerator (RWA) – an innovative initiative dedicated to mobilising private and public finance for water projects that enhance climate resilience in vulnerable communities.  

Barr Bimbola Sanlu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the State Government represent Governor Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, spoke at the launch saying:

“We are working to ensure that our water delivery facilities are revamped, our wetlands and canals are free of blockades to manage flood risk and our coastal communities are prepared to be resilient against climate impacts. As we continue the process of improving our water resources sector, it is clear that we need additional investment in which the private sector will play prominent roles in complementing the efforts of the public sector.

“The creation of the Lagos Water Partnership will lead the development and delivery of an investment vision for Lagos water security, and the state is delighted to work with the Resilient Water Accelerator (RWA) and its allies to drive this partnership.”

Lagos, already home to 20 million people, is also one of the fastest growing cities in Africa with a growth of 77 people per hour between 2010 and 2030. Despite being surrounded by wetlands, lagoons and the Atlantic Ocean, just 10% of people living in Lagos have access to a municipal water supply. The city is also highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change including sea-level rise and flooding.  

The establishment of the new Lagos Water Partnership represents a major milestone in the Resilient Water Accelerator’s mission to unlock new sources of financing for necessary climate-resilient water projects. This could include enhancing urban and rural water supply infrastructure, introducing innovative technologies, and spearheading the review and development of sector policies and regulations.   

The government of Lagos officially launched the Lagos Water Partnership today at the inauguration event, held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel. Highlights of the event included the unveiling of LWP members, keynote addresses, panel discussions, and the exchange of memoranda of understanding between key stakeholders, including government officials, private sector representatives, academic experts, civil society groups, and development partners. 

As Kate Hughes, Chief Executive Officer of the Resilient Water Accelerator said: 

"The inauguration of the Lagos Water Partnership marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to build resilience and ensure sustainable water access for all. By improving water systems, we can enhance the health, economic stability, and quality of life for the people of Lagos, reducing disease and freeing up time for education and employment opportunities. By forging partnerships and mobilising resources, we can create lasting impact and transform the water landscape in Lagos and beyond." 

Martin Shouler, Arup’s urban water lead said: 

“I am so pleased to see that our City Water Resilience Approach (CWRA) work in Lagos has led to a major milestone with the formation of the Lagos Water Partnership.  I look forward to continuing the journey to build the water resilience of this immensely important city and its community in West Africa.” 

Adding his thought, Kunle Adebajo, Country Director; Arup Nigeria said: 

"As we inaugurate the Lagos Water Partnership, we celebrate our commitment to reliable and sustainable access to clean water for all Lagos residents. This achievement is the result of ongoing innovation and collaboration between MDAs, local stakeholders, private sector partners and multinational funders. The positive impact on quality of life in Lagos should be truly phenomenal”.