Water and environmental experts have called for urgent action to address the growing challenges of climate change, water security, and saline intrusion in Lagos State. This was the key message at the Year 2025 World Water Day Commemoration Symposium, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Conference Centre, Alausa, under the theme “Putting Glacier Preservation at the Core of Climate Action Plan.”
The symposium, attended by 142 participants—including representatives from non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private sector practitioners, government agencies, and students—highlighted the profound impact of glacier retreat on the global water cycle, particularly its consequences for low-lying coastal cities like Lagos. Experts discussed current challenges, shared insights, and proposed solutions to ensure water sustainability in the state.
Saline Intrusion Threat to Lagos Water Supply
Delivering the first lecture, Prof. Oluseyi Temilola of the Department of Chemistry, University of Lagos, raised concerns over the increasing saline intrusion into groundwater, a phenomenon driven by climate change and urbanization. She noted that over 22 million Lagos residents depend on groundwater for survival, warning that rising saltwater levels threaten water security, public health, and economic activities. She emphasized the urgent need for sustainable Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives, as well as stronger partnerships between the government, private sector, and local communities.
Private Sector Innovations for Water Access
In his presentation, Mr. Mark Okeke, Managing Director of Cummins, outlined efforts by Cummins Waterworks to improve water accessibility in Lagos. Commending the Lagos State government’s initiatives, he urged continued collaboration with stakeholders to enhance sustainable access to safe drinking water.
Panel Discussion on Water Sustainability
A panel discussion featuring Prof. Temilola, Mr. Okeke, Dr. Clement Oladejo (Funman Nig. Ltd.), Mr. Femi Ogunleye (Resilient Water Accelerator – RWA), and Engr. James Oyedele, moderated by Engr. Adesoji Adeyemi, delved into practical solutions for the state’s water sector.
Dr. Clement Oladejo highlighted Funman Nigeria’s commitment to providing safe water in Lagos.
Prof. Temilola stressed the importance of proper treatment of potable water and the availability of test kits for quality checks, while also acknowledging the role of the Lagos State Research and Innovation Council (LASRIC) in funding water research.
Mr. Okeke detailed Cummins’ efforts to reduce carbon emissions and treat wastewater before discharge, urging stakeholders to minimize their carbon footprints.
Mr. Ogunleye pointed out that inadequate budget allocations hinder progress in the water sector. However, he noted that development partners have successfully facilitated government access to water sector funding through the Lagos Water Partnership (LWP).
Key Resolutions and Recommendations
At the end of deliberations, participants made the following recommendations:
1. Strengthen collaboration between Lagos State and neighboring states for integrated water resource management.
2. Reduce carbon footprints at both individual and community levels.
3. Foster continuous cooperation among the private sector, public sector, and academic institutions.
4. Promote reforestation efforts while reducing deforestation.
5. Develop well-structured, bankable projects to attract investment and funding for the water sector.
6. Prioritize environmental education and public awareness on water challenges and solutions.
The symposium, organized in partnership with the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, underscored the need for a bold and collaborative approach to tackling Lagos’ water security challenges while integrating glacier preservation into the broader climate action plan.
