Civil society representatives in Lagos have backed the Lagos Water Corporation’s proposed Public-Private Partnership for seven mini and micro waterworks, describing it as a step toward bridging the state’s widening water supply gap.
By Bunmi Yekini
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Lagos have expressed support for the Lagos Water Corporation’s (LWC) planned Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for seven mini and micro waterworks, stressing that citizen involvement will be crucial to its success.
The CSOs made their position known during an engagement session held on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at the LWC headquarters in Ijora, where the Corporation presented details of the proposed pilot project.
Managing Director of LWC, Engr. Mukhtaar Tijani, explained that the initiative is designed to deliver long-term solutions to the state’s water challenges.
“We cannot continue to operate with old methods if we want improved outcomes. This pilot project is our way of ensuring Lagosians enjoy reliable access to potable water in a sustainable manner,” Tijani said.
Reinforcing the Corporation’s readiness, the Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Helen Taiwo, highlighted that the partnership would not compromise public interest.
“Our focus is clear, boosting production, improving distribution, and keeping the customer at the centre of everything we do. Private sector collaboration will help us achieve that balance,” she noted.
In a presentation, Head of Transformation and Strategy, Engr. Titilola Bright-Oridami, outlined benefits such as transparent tariffs, consistent water supply, grievance redress mechanisms, and the introduction of a Community Service Charter to guarantee accountability.
Responding on behalf of the CSOs, participants at the meeting commended LWC’s willingness to engage openly. They pledged to disseminate information about the project within their communities and maintain dialogue with the Corporation.
“Water is life, and Lagosians deserve dependable access to it. We believe this initiative can make a difference if it is pursued with transparency and inclusivity,” one CSO representative remarked.
The PPP pilot comes against the backdrop of rising demand for potable water in Lagos, driven by population growth and ageing infrastructure. With daily demand at over 540 million gallons, far above current production, the Corporation hopes the partnership will provide a scalable model for expanding water access across the state.