The Lagos State Government, in collaboration with WaterAid, Plan, and private operators, is constructing 350 public toilets to improve sanitation.
WaterAid has projected that by 2028, at least 10 million residents will gain direct access to basic WASH services across Lagos.
Speaking at a media roundtable, Special Adviser on Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, confirmed that work had commenced on the project.
He stated that locations for the new toilets had already been identified to help eliminate open defecation in Lagos.
Rotimi-Akodu outlined the state’s three-way approach, which includes infrastructure development, advocacy, and strict enforcement for improved sanitation practices.
The government is prioritizing public toilet availability to reduce healthcare costs and enhance overall public health across communities.
Rotimi-Akodu emphasized the government’s stance against drilling boreholes, preferring to enhance Lagos Water Corporation’s capacity instead.
Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, highlighted illegal water usage concerns affecting government water supply efforts.
He explained that the state is exploring sustainable strategies to regulate and finance potable water supply across Lagos.
Meanwhile, WaterAid’s State Programme Lead, Dr. Adebayo Alao, revealed Kimberly Clark’s $1 million donation towards hygiene improvements.
The initiative targets 45,000 lactating women, adolescent girls, and vulnerable groups, promoting better hygiene behaviors within communities.
WaterAid has also facilitated the renovation of two Primary Health Centres with improved water and sanitation facilities.
Medical equipment worth ₦30 million was supplied to PHCs in Ogba and Odo-Nla, Epe, enhancing healthcare delivery services.
Additional achievements include support for Lagos State’s WASH policy review and rehabilitation of dysfunctional waterworks infrastructure.
A technical assessment of water supply systems led to the ongoing rehabilitation of Akilo Water Works in Lagos.
