Lagos seeks stronger regulation of wastewater as untreated sewage raises environmental concerns

The Lagos State Government has taken another step towards restructuring wastewater and faecal sludge management with a proposal for new rates and charges covering services across the state.

The proposed tariff framework was presented by Adefemi Afolabi, General Manager of the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO), during a meeting with the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO).

The government says the initiative is designed to strengthen regulation and improve the financial sustainability of wastewater management.

Officials also want the framework to establish clearer responsibilities and expectations for property owners, businesses, facility managers and service providers.

Afolabi said the proposed rates would help create a more predictable system for planning, monitoring and delivering wastewater and faecal sludge services.

He said the framework would also improve accountability throughout the wastewater management value chain and encourage compliance with environmental and sanitation standards.

For LASWARCO, the proposal is part of the wider need to establish effective regulation of services that have direct implications for public health and the environment.

The commission’s Executive Secretary, Bukola Khadijah Adeyemo, welcomed the initiative and called for a strong regulatory framework capable of improving service delivery and environmental sustainability.

Lagos’ wastewater challenge has grown alongside its population and rapid urban development.

Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has said the state produces approximately 2.2 million cubic metres of untreated domestic wastewater every day, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing authorities.

The state government has also sought partnerships to strengthen liquid waste management infrastructure and improve its ability to manage faecal sludge.

The proposed charges come as Lagos continues enforcement against improper wastewater disposal.

Authorities sealed two properties in Ikota GRA in 2025 over alleged illegal discharge of untreated wastewater into public drains and the environment.

The government has said better management of wastewater is necessary to reduce pollution and protect residents from potential health risks.

The latest proposal is not yet an approved tariff.

It will undergo further legislative presentation and consideration before the required approval and gazetting process.