Lagos: The Federal Government and the Lagos State Government have renewed their commitment to strengthen collaboration on flood resilience, water sector reforms, and sanitation. According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasized this renewed partnership during a courtesy visit to Lagos Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In a statement issued at the conclusion of their meeting, Utsev highlighted that the partnership aims to enhance water resources management and sanitation services in Lagos State. He extended his sympathies to the state over recent flooding incidents and stressed the crucial need for cooperation between both governments to overcome water and sanitation challenges.
The minister pinpointed flood resilience, the acceleration of Open Defecation Free (ODF) status, and sustainable urban water sector reforms as key areas for collaboration. He identified several contributing factors to flooding in Lagos, including its coastal location, rapid urbanization, climate change, and intense rainfall.
Utsev referenced the 2026 Annual Flood Outlook (AFO) by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA), which lists Lagos among the 33 states at high risk of flooding. He praised the state’s flood mitigation efforts and pledged federal support through improved drainage infrastructure, integrated water resources management, and stronger coordination.
The minister noted Lagos’ interest in participating in the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation, and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, which aims to enhance water and sanitation services. He urged the state to intensify its efforts towards achieving ODF status, particularly in underserved communities.
Utsev further revealed that the ministry had developed the first draft of the National Water Compact to drive reforms, attract investment, and promote sustainable water management. Additionally, the Federal Government has introduced the National Flood Intelligence Monitoring System and the Multi-Hazard Flood Early Warning System through NiHSA to bolster flood forecasting and early response.
In response, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s support and called for sustained collaboration to address the impacts of climate change in Lagos. He mentioned that the state had devised a strategy to achieve ODF status and was prepared to work with the ministry to enhance sanitation, hygiene services, flood management, and water resources development.
The meeting was attended by the Director-General of NiHSA, Umar Mohammed; Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority, Adedeji Ashiru, and other officials from both governments.