By Olaitan Ibrahim
The Lagos State Government has announced a renewed enforcement drive to regulate groundwater abstraction and penalize industries operating without authorization.
This was announced on Monday by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, during a press briefing addressing groundwater management and regulatory compliance in the state.
Mr. Wahab emphasized the critical role of the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) in overseeing activities related to the abstraction, production, and consumption of groundwater.
He stressed the risks posed by unregulated groundwater use, including land subsidence, contamination of water sources, and other environmental hazards, which threaten public health and infrastructure development.
“Unregulated groundwater abstraction denies the government additional opportunities to fund critical infrastructure projects and improve the lives of Lagosians. We are committed to ensuring compliance with regulatory provisions to protect the environment and public health,” Wahab said.
Noting the low compliance levels despite the government’s previous concession of a 75% waiver on groundwater abstraction license fees in 2020, the Commissioner noted that LASWARCO would intensify enforcement efforts. Prominent bottling companies like 7UP, CWAY, and La Casera, along with the Hotel Owners Association, have been compliant.
However, many others continue to operate in breach of the law.
“Last week, letters with a 72-hour ultimatum were issued to noncompliant organizations. Enforcement actions will continue against defaulters, serving as a deterrent to others. We will take all necessary steps to ensure that this responsibility is discharged,” Wahab stated.
The Environmental Management Protection Law (EMPL) 2017 empowers LASWARCO to regulate all activities impacting groundwater.
Under the law, unauthorized groundwater abstraction and operating without a license are classified as offenses. The Commissioner warned that violators would face significant penalties, reflecting the seriousness of these breaches.
The Lagos State Government has called on all entities utilizing groundwater for production, consumption, or distribution to regularize their operations promptly.
Wahab restated the government’s commitment to sustainable groundwater management, reduction in over-extraction, and ensuring fair and transparent regulation of the water sector.
“We urge all organizations falling under the regulated category to come forward and comply with the law. Government remains committed to working with stakeholders to safeguard our water resources,” he concluded.