FG, Lagos Strengthen Partnership on Flood Control, Water Resources, Sanitation
The Federal Government and the Lagos State Government have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration on flood resilience, sustainable water resources management, urban water sector reforms and improved sanitation to enhance the quality of life of Nigerians.
The renewed commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the Honourable Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Engr. Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev, to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, at the Lagos House, Marina.
Prof. Utsev conveyed the Federal Government’s sympathy to the government and people of Lagos State over the recent flooding incidents, while stressing the importance of stronger collaboration to address the growing challenges posed by rapid urbanisation, climate change and rising sea levels.
He noted that Lagos, as one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities, occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s economic development, making coordinated efforts between the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation and the Lagos State Government essential for sustainable growth.
The Minister identified key areas of collaboration to include strengthening flood resilience, accelerating the attainment of Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and advancing sustainable urban water sector reforms to improve service delivery and attract greater investment.
According to him, the Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) 2026 issued by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA) identified Lagos among the 33 states at high risk of flooding, underscoring the need for proactive planning, improved early warning systems and stronger intergovernmental cooperation.
Prof. Utsev commended the Lagos State Government for its ongoing flood mitigation efforts and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s readiness to support the state through integrated water resources management, improved drainage infrastructure, nature-based solutions, effective urban planning and enhanced institutional coordination.
He also welcomed Lagos State’s interest in participating in the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, describing it as a strategic initiative that will strengthen governance, improve service delivery and expand access to safe water and sanitation through performance-based financing.
On sanitation, the Minister applauded the state’s progress while calling for accelerated efforts towards achieving Open Defecation Free status, particularly in underserved communities.
Prof. Utsev further disclosed that the Ministry has developed the first draft of the National Water Compact, a strategic framework designed to drive reforms across Nigeria’s water sector through improved policy coordination, investment mobilisation and sustainable water resources management in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He also highlighted key Federal Government initiatives, including the National Flood Intelligence Monitoring System and the Multi-Hazard Flood Early Warning System, developed by NiHSA to strengthen flood forecasting, support early response and improve coordination among governments and communities.
The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with Lagos State and development partners to expand access to clean water, improve sanitation services and develop resilient water infrastructure capable of meeting the demands of the state’s growing population.
Responding, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appreciated the Federal Government’s support and reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to working closely with the Ministry to address flood risks and strengthen environmental sustainability.
The Governor acknowledged the increasing impact of climate change on Lagos and stressed the need for sustained collaboration between both levels of government to implement practical and long-term solutions for flood control, sanitation and water resource development.
He disclosed that Lagos State has already developed a comprehensive roadmap towards achieving Open Defecation Free status and pledged continued partnership with the Federal Ministry to improve hygiene services, strengthen flood management and promote sustainable water resources development.
The meeting reaffirmed the shared determination of both governments to build a cleaner, healthier, safer and more climate-resilient Lagos while advancing sustainable water management and improved sanitation services across Nigeria.
FG, Lagos Strengthen Partnership on Flood Control, Water Resources, Sanitation