Lagos proposes new wastewater, faecal sludge rates and charges
By Aboki Forex —
The Lagos State Government has proposed new rates and charges for wastewater and faecal sludge management across the state. The proposal was presented by the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) during a meeting with the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) in Alausa, Ikeja.
What LSWMO is proposing
The proposed rates are part of efforts to strengthen regulation, improve service delivery and establish a more transparent and sustainable financial framework for wastewater and faecal sludge management in Lagos. LSWMO General Manager, Engr. Adefemi Afolabi, said the rates are critical to developing a sustainable wastewater management system, particularly given Lagos’ growing population, increasing wastewater generation and the need for improved compliance with environmental and sanitation standards.
Afolabi said an effective wastewater services tariff structure would provide greater clarity for property owners, businesses, facility managers and service providers. He added that the framework would support the state government’s objective of ensuring safe and environmentally responsible wastewater and faecal sludge management.
Regulators back the move
LASWARCO Executive Secretary, Mrs Bukola Khadijah Adeyemo, welcomed the initiative. She emphasised the need for a strong regulatory framework to improve service delivery, protect public health and promote environmental sustainability.
The proposal will now proceed for further legislative presentation and consideration before the required approval and gazetting process.
Sanwo-Olu’s sanitation agenda
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had earlier stated that his administration was committed to closing infrastructural gaps in liquid waste management and sanitation. He stressed the need to strengthen LSWMO’s capacity to manage faecal sludge, reduce environmental pollution and tackle waterborne diseases through strategic partnerships, including collaboration with WaterAid Nigeria.
The governor’s wife, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, said Lagos generates 2.2 million cubic metres of untreated domestic wastewater daily.
Enforcement context
In September 2025, LSWMO sealed EMCEL Court Phase I and Well Stock Apartments on Lantana Avenue, Ikota GRA, Eti-Osa for allegedly discharging wastewater illegally into public drains and the environment. Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the facilities were releasing untreated wastewater, creating a public nuisance and posing environmental and health risks. He urged residents to adopt proper wastewater management and hygiene practices.
The proposed rates are expected to provide a clearer regulatory and financial structure for wastewater and faecal sludge management as Lagos seeks to address the environmental and public health challenges associated with untreated wastewater.