OGUN, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- In a bid to improve access to clean water and sanitation, the Lagos State Government has launched its new Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) policy.
The state government said the policy was in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Six.
The policy was presented on Thursday, during an event organised in commemoration of the 2024 World Water Day with the theme: “Water for Peace.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Lagos State WASH policy was developed by the Lagos State Government with technical support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
The technical support came through the USAID/Nigeria Lagos Urban Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (LUWASH) Activity.
Presenting the policy, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said it served as a guiding framework in the journey towards ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation.
READ ALSO: Easter Celebration: Lagos Opens Sunday Market On Friday
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab who represented the Lagos state government, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu states that this comprehensive policy outlines a holistic approach to water management, encompassing strategies for conservation, pollution prevention, and equitable distribution.
He said by implementing the provisions of the WASH Policy, we reaffirm our commitment to leave no one behind in our quest for water security and peace. Adding that In our pursuit of water security and sustainability, it is imperative that we embrace the principles of inclusivity and equity.
He said that LUWASH was currently supporting the water sector in various activities, which included the rehabilitation of five micro/mini water works for Lagos Water Corporation (LWC).
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Aliyu Shinkafi, said access to clean water remained a luxury for too many people.
Mr Utsev said that this led to inequality, conflict, and instability.
READ ALSO: Why Lagos Banned Use Of Take-Away Packs, Other Single-Use Plastics
“More than 3 billion people worldwide depend on water that crosses national borders.
“Yet, only 24 countries have cooperation agreements for all their shared water as reported by the UN waters.
“Public health and prosperity, food and energy systems, economic productivity and environmental integrity all rely on a well-functioning and equitably managed water cycle.
“Today, we are confronted with unprecedented challenges, from the escalating impacts of climate change to the growing demands of a rapidly expanding global population.
“Yet, in the face of these challenges, we must also recognise the immense potential of water as a catalyst for cooperation, collaboration and peace-building,” he said.
Speaking on the theme, Utsev highlighted the power of water to create peace or spark conflict.
READ ALSO: Lagos Trains 340 Healthcare Workers In Safe Blood Handling
According to him, when water is scarce or polluted, or when people have unequal, or no access to water, tensions can rise between communities and countries.
“By harnessing the power of water as a tool for diplomacy and dialogue, we can bridge divides, build trust and forge lasting partnerships that transcend the limitations of geography and ideology.
“By promoting inclusive governance structures, promoting integrated water resource management, and investing in water infrastructure and technology, we can create the conditions for peace to flourish and prosperity to thrive,” he said.
Mr James Racicot, LUWASH Chief of Party, explained that LUWASH was implemented in 2023 as a five-year $38.9 million activity supported by USAID.
He said it was to increase the availability, quality and use of safe water and sanitation services.
According to him, the objectives of the LUWASH activity are to strengthen governance and institutional arrangement to deliver improved WASH services and improve public and private service provider performance.