Lagos State Begins Crackdown on Unauthorized Groundwater Abstraction

Lagos State is stepping up efforts to regulate groundwater abstraction and protect the environment, as the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) begins enforcement against defaulters breaching the Environmental Management Protection Law (EMPL) of 2017.

Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, December 23, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized the critical need for compliance with the law, which mandates authorization for groundwater abstraction.

“The Environmental Management Protection Law empowers LASWARCO to regulate all activities impacting groundwater, including abstraction, supply, distribution, and usage. Unfortunately, a significant number of organizations are operating without authorization, posing risks to public health and the environment,” Wahab said.

Despite a 75% waiver on groundwater abstraction fees granted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2020, compliance levels remain low. Companies such as 7UP, CWAY, and La Casera, alongside the Hotel Owners Association, were among the few to adhere fully to the regulations. Wahab warned that the state government will now take strict enforcement actions to address non-compliance.

“Defaulters are not only breaking the law but also depriving the government of funds needed for critical infrastructure projects. Unregulated groundwater abstraction contributes to environmental hazards such as land subsidence and groundwater contamination,” he explained.

In an initial step, LASWARCO issued 72-hour ultimatum letters to non-compliant entities last week. Enforcement actions will now follow, led by the Executive Secretary of LASWARCO, Mrs. Funke Adepoju. The state government has pledged to penalize offenders and ensure regulatory provisions are upheld.

“We urge all regulated entities to regularize their operations promptly. The Lagos State Government remains committed to protecting the environment and public health through sustainable groundwater management,” Wahab added.

The government reaffirmed its commitment to working with stakeholders in a fair and transparent manner while underscoring that compliance is mandatory for all entities utilizing groundwater resources.