WATER SECTOR LAW
Act · Water
An Act governs the provision and management of water supply, sanitation, and resources across Nigeria. It targets federal and state agencies, local governments, and private operators in the water sector. This aims to ensure safe and affordable water access while promoting sustainability.
What Is This Policy?
A body of legislation and policy governing the provision, management, and regulation of water supply, sanitation, and water resource management across Nigeria, encompassing both urban and rural water supply delivery and the institutional framework for the water sector.
Who Does It Target?
Federal Ministry of Water Resources State water boards and agencies Local government areas responsible for rural water supply Private sector water operators and utilities
What Does It Aim to Achieve?
To ensure universal access to safe and affordable water and sanitation, regulate the water sector for efficiency and sustainability, protect water quality, and attract investment into water infrastructure.
Key Features
Sector Governance: Defines the roles and responsibilities of federal, state, and local government actors in water provision. Water Utilities Regulation: Provides for regulation of water utilities to ensure service quality and appropriate tariffs. Rural Water Supply: Mandates local governments to provide potable water to rural communities. Private Sector Participation: Creates a framework for private concessions and public-private partnerships in water supply. Sanitation Standards: Links water supply obligations to sanitation infrastructure requirements.
Current Status
In force. Water sector laws and policies are administered through the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and state water boards, with ongoing infrastructure programmes to expand access to clean water and sanitation for Nigerians.
Households connect to piped water systems through the relevant state water board Communities apply for rural water supply projects through local government Private operators apply for concessions or licences from state regulators Application method: State Water Boards and Local Government Areas
Important Terms
Water abstraction above prescribed thresholds requires a permit Polluting water supply sources is a criminal offence Consumers must pay approved tariffs for connected water services
Official Resources
Website: www.waterresources.gov.ng Policy Summary Document | Federal Republic of Nigeria
Legal Framework
Operates under the National Water Resources Act 2023, the River Basin Development Authorities Act, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency Act 2007, the Environmental Impact Assessment Act 1992, and the Land Use Act 1978 for water infrastructure corridors.