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Performance Assessment of Water Infrastructure in Lagos State, Nigeria: Implications for Sustainable Development

Olayemi Soladoye

Abstract

At the root of water supply problems in sub-Saharan Africa is the state of infrastructure in the water sector. As the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals approaches, this study assesses the condition of public water infrastructure in Lagos State, Nigeria, in order to evaluate progress made towards achieving the SDG-6 objectives. Using secondary data spanning 2017 to 2021, the study conducted an inventory and performance evaluation of waterworks in the state. The findings indicate significant disparities in pipe-borne water access, particularly in underserved urban fringes. Statistical analyses reveal that major water-producing facilities operate below their design capacity, with utilisation rates often under 40%. The result of ANOVA testing the effect of the levels of system design on the operational performance of major waterworks revealed significant differences in operational performance implying that performances were better with the levels of volumetric production of system design rather than with design capacity. Overall, seasonal changes have a significant impact on water production, underscoring the importance of diversifying water sources for domestic water supply. Also, the uneven distribution of water facilities necessitates the strategic positioning of new infrastructure that are guided by geospatial tools. From the findings on capacity underutilization, there is a need for technology modernisation and improved energy stability for all waterworks. The need for improvement in funding of water-producing facilities for infrastructure development was highlighted. This study recommends the urgent need for critical actions to enhance water production in Lagos State to achieve SDG-6 objectives.

Keywords

Water infrastructureSDG 6Water productionWaterworksLagosPerformance evaluation

References

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