Lagos State Government on Monday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with international consortium partners, Belstar Capital and ENKA, for the rehabilitation and expansion of the state’s water supply system.
EpeInsights reports that this is a major move to tackle water scarcity and boost access to safe drinking water.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Alausa, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the partnership is a strategic effort to transform Lagos’ water infrastructure and ensure the reliable delivery of potable water to underserved communities.
“The focus of this project is to provide a sustainable, safe, and efficient water supply network for millions of residents who currently face challenges accessing clean water,” Wahab stated.
He explained that the project will involve the construction of new water treatment plants, rehabilitation of existing facilities, and expansion of water distribution networks.
Highlighting the scope of the project, Wahab noted that it would be implemented in two parts, the Brownfield phase to revamp old waterworks, and the Greenfield phase for the construction of brand-new water facilities in strategic locations across Lagos.
Managing Director of Lagos Water Corporation (LWC), Engr. Mukhtaar Tijani, described the MoU as a significant leap towards ensuring that every Lagosian has access to safe and affordable drinking water.
He stressed that the project will eliminate dependence on unsafe water sources and reduce the prevalence of waterborne diseases across the state.
“This intervention is timely and critical. It is designed to close the gap in potable water supply, especially in fast-growing urban and rural communities,” Tijani added.
Group Managing Director of Belstar Capital, Mr. Tewodros Polk, assured that the consortium will deploy world-class technical expertise while also using local subcontractors to promote sustainable development.
He said the project will be delivered using the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Finance (EPCF) model, insured by the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, with a target completion period of 36 months.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to strict compliance with international social, environmental, and safety standards throughout the project’s execution.
The water rehabilitation and expansion project is seen as a critical pillar in Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s agenda to improve the quality of life for residents and achieve universal access to clean water across Lagos.
