Lagos State Adopts New WASH Policy for Improved Water Access on World Water Day

Towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6), the Lagos State government has launched a new Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) policy on World Water Day, March 22, 2024.

The policy, developed with technical support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), aims to enhance, promote, and improve access to clean water in the state.

World Water Day, with its theme “Water for Peace,” emphasizes the critical role of water in fostering cooperation and peace among communities and individuals.

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, stressed the importance of water as a powerful force for peace and cooperation.

He emphasized that the new policy would provide a platform for the review and passing of specific WASH legislation and guidelines to achieve the state’s objectives in line with SDG6.

The policy’s holistic approach to water management includes strategies for conservation, pollution prevention, and equitable distribution.

With 23 percent of Nigerians lacking access to basic water supply and 87 percent lacking safe drinking water, the policy’s adoption is a crucial step in addressing the significant water deficit in Lagos, a city with a projected population of 22.4 million.

USAID’s Chief of Party, LUWASH, James Racicot, highlighted the importance of safe and equitable access to water and sanitation as a mitigating factor in conflict resolution.

The agency is providing technical assistance to Lagos State to help implement the policy effectively.

The World Water Day event underscores the importance of access to clean and safe water for the global population.

The adoption of the new WASH policy by the Lagos State government is a significant step towards achieving SDG6 and ensuring that all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, have access to clean water and sanitation.