The Lagos State Water Corporation has signed an agreement with WaterAid to rehabilitate the Akilo Micro Waterworks, which has been out of service for years.
The project, which is expected to provide clean water to over 100,000 residents in Ifako-Ijaiye, is supported by WaterAid and Armani Beauty. The contract signing ceremony took place at LASWARCO’s office in Ijora on Thursday, February 13, 2025.
Speaking at the event, the Managing Director of LASWARCO, Mukhtaar Tijani, highlighted the significance of the project, saying it will greatly improve water supply in the area.
“We acknowledge the importance of this project. There have been baseline and household studies carried out around Akilo before we arrived at the contractor that will be implementing this waterworks project, which will benefit 100,000 residents,” he said.
He also revealed that Rigmars Projects Limited, the contractor for the project, will begin work as soon as part payment is made. The project is expected to be completed within six months.
Evelyn Mere, the Country Director of WaterAid Nigeria, explained that her organization worked closely with LASWARCO to ensure the project was well-planned before signing the contract.
“The possibility of bringing the project to life was thoroughly reviewed, from the technical assessment to the finalization of the procurement process,” she said.
Mere also stressed the importance of clean water, stating, “The huge burden of lack of access to safely managed water, sanitation, and hygiene services impacts heavily on health. About 90% of deaths caused by diarrheal diseases are linked to unsafe water, poor sanitation, and hygiene.”
She added that WaterAid is now focusing on projects that benefit large communities, making this rehabilitation project a key part of their strategy.
The Managing Director of Rigmars Projects Limited, Nwankwo Chimechefolam, expressed gratitude to LASWARCO and WaterAid for the opportunity to handle the project.
“We assure you of a high-quality job and timely delivery,” he said.
Representatives from the Lagos Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission, and the Lagos State Waste Management Office attended the contract signing event.
