Residents of Somolu and neighbouring communities in Lagos have raised alarm over persistent lack of access to safe and affordable water, calling on the state government to prioritise public water supply.
The concerns were voiced during a community outreach held in Somolu Local Government Area to mark World Water Day, organised by the Africa Water Justice Network alongside the Help Initiative for Social Justice and Humanitarian Development in Nigeria.
Participants from Somolu, Bariga, and other Gbagada-axis communities lamented heavy dependence on water vendors, describing the cost as unsustainable for low-income households. Some residents noted that although boreholes are common, the water is often saline and causes skin irritation, forcing reliance on sachet and bottled water for drinking.
Community members urged the government to maintain public control of water services and increase funding to the sector, warning that reliance on private vendors is not viable long-term.
Speaking at the event, Aderonke Ige emphasised that water is a fundamental human right and should not be treated as a commodity. She added that the campaign aims to amplify grassroots voices and promote sustainable, publicly managed water systems across Africa.
Research insights were also shared by Dr. Nura Ali of the University of Lagos and the University of Liverpool.
The outreach ended with renewed calls for urgent government intervention to ensure equitable access to safe and affordable water.
