The Federal Government and the Lagos State Government have agreed to deepen cooperation on flood management, water sector reforms and sanitation as part of efforts to reduce the impact of climate change and improve public health.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, disclosed the agreement during a visit to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, where both parties discussed strategies to strengthen resilience against flooding and improve access to water and sanitation services.

Utsev expressed concern over the recent flooding experienced in Lagos and extended his sympathy to residents affected by the incident. He noted that the state’s rapid urban growth requires closer collaboration between federal and state authorities to effectively address water-related challenges.

According to the minister, priority areas of the partnership include enhancing flood resilience, supporting Lagos in achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) status and advancing reforms aimed at improving urban water service delivery and attracting investment into the sector.

He said the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency’s 2026 Annual Flood Outlook identified Lagos as one of 33 states vulnerable to flooding, underscoring the need for improved preparedness, stronger early warning mechanisms and better coordination among relevant agencies.

Utsev assured the state of the Federal Government’s support through investments in drainage infrastructure, integrated water resources management, nature-based flood control measures and improved urban planning.

He also welcomed Lagos State’s interest in joining the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) Programme, describing it as a platform to strengthen governance, expand water and sanitation services and access performance-based funding.

The minister further urged the state to intensify efforts toward eliminating open defecation, particularly in underserved communities. He added that the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation had prepared the first draft of the National Water Compact to drive reforms through stronger institutions, increased investment and sustainable water resources management.

Utsev also highlighted the introduction of the National Flood Intelligence Monitoring System and the Multi-Hazard Flood Early Warning System, saying both initiatives are designed to improve flood forecasting, support timely emergency response and minimise flood-related losses nationwide.

In his response, Governor Sanwo-Olu welcomed the Federal Government’s commitment, noting that the effects of climate change have continued to increase flooding and other environmental pressures in Lagos.

He said the state had developed a comprehensive roadmap to attain Open Defecation Free status and reaffirmed its readiness to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation to improve sanitation, strengthen flood control measures and promote sustainable management of water resources.

Both governments pledged to sustain their collaboration to build a cleaner, safer and more climate-resilient Lagos.