The Lagos State Government has announced a temporary disruption in water supply affecting several key areas, including Mainland, Ikeja, Surulere, Lagos Island, Ketu Alapere, Mobolaji Bank Anthony, Oregun, Aromire, Allen Avenue, and others. This follows a significant water pipe leak reported on January 2, 2025, near the Maryland Mall.
As a result, production has been temporarily halted at the Iju and Adiyan 1 waterworks, which provide approximately 40% of the state’s water supply. The disruption was confirmed by Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, in response to concerns raised by a social media user.
“We are aware of the leakage opposite the Maryland Mall. Consequently, we’ve had to suspend operations at our major waterworks, Iju and Adiyan 1,” Wahab stated in a tweet. “We sincerely apologize to residents in the affected areas for the inconvenience.”
A video accompanying Wahab’s tweet showed water gushing from the broken pipe, illustrating the severity of the leak and the urgent need for repairs. The Lagos State Water Corporation is actively working to resolve the issue and restore normal water supply.
Background and Future Plans
The Lagos State Government has been actively addressing the growing water supply needs of the state. In October 2024, Tokunbo Wahab announced plans to meet the daily requirement of 240 million gallons of water. This includes refurbishing five mini and micro waterworks, with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), to improve access to clean water in underserved areas.
Additionally, the Lagos Water Corporation (LWC) Managing Director, Engr. Mukhtaar Tijani, reported that the state has secured a five-year grant from USAID for the Lagos Urban Water Sanitation and Hygiene (LUWASH) programme. This initiative will support the rehabilitation of waterworks and sanitation facilities across Lagos, enhancing infrastructure and living conditions for residents. The LWC is overseeing the first phase of this project, aiming to meet immediate demands until larger projects, such as the Adiyan 2 waterworks, are completed.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels as the government works diligently to resolve the current disruption and continue its efforts to improve the state’s water supply system.
