NATIONAL WATER AND SANITATION POLICY
Policy · Water
A Policy provides a framework for achieving universal access to safe water and sanitation in Nigeria. It targets state water operators, rural communities, and sanitation departments. This aims to meet clean water goals by 2030.
NATIONAL WATER AND SANITATION POLICY
What Is This Policy?
Nigeria's policy framework for achieving universal access to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 6.
Who Does It Target?
State water corporations and water utility operators Rural communities without piped water LGA sanitation departments International WASH partners (UNICEF, WHO, USAID)
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
Achieve universal access to safe water and adequate sanitation in Nigeria by 2030 through reformed water utilities, expanded rural water schemes, improved sanitation facilities, and hygiene behaviour change.
Key Features
Universal Access Target: Commits Nigeria to achieving SDG 6 (clean water and sanitation for all) by 2030. Water Sector Reform: Promotes the reform of state water utilities to be commercially viable and customer-focused. Rural Water Supply: Expands rural water schemes through community-managed boreholes and piped schemes. Sanitation and Hygiene: Promotes open defecation free (ODF) communities through community-led total sanitation (CLTS).
Current Status
Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: Nationwide water and sanitation sector Beneficiaries: All Nigerians; rural communities in particular Funding: Federal and state governments; World Bank; bilateral donors
How to Access
Communities may request water facility construction through LGAs State water corporations for piped water connections in urban areas WASH NGOs may partner with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources Application method: Contact the Federal Ministry of Water Resources or state water corporations.
Official Resources
Website: https://www.waterresources.gov.ng Contact: Federal Ministry of Water Resources
Legal Framework
Operates under the National Water Resources Act 2023, the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 1992, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency Act 2007, and the Universal Basic Education Act 2004 (for school WASH). Draws on the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme standards and the SDG 6 targets on water and sanitation.