The Lagos State Government has declared its intention to enforce regulations on groundwater abstraction, citing the Environmental Management Protection Law (EMPL) 2017. According to the Honorable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) is empowered to regulate all activities impacting groundwater. The announcement was made with the Executive Secretary of LASWARCO, Mrs. Funke Adepoju, in attendance.

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab emphasized that the EMPL classifies the abstraction of groundwater without authorization and operating without a license as offenses under the law. Despite a 75% waiver on groundwater abstraction concessions granted by the Governor in 2020, only a few bottling companies, such as 7UP, CWAY, and La Casera, and the Hotel Owners Association, have been fully compliant, Mr. Wahab noted.

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab stated that the lack of compliance has prompted LASWARCO to commence enforcement of regulatory compliance, emphasizing the importance of promoting sustainable groundwater management and reducing over-extraction. The government warns that unregulated groundwater abstraction can lead to land subsidence, contamination of groundwater sources, and other environmental hazards, Mr. Wahab warned.

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab called on all organizations that fall within the regulated entities to come forward and regularize their operations. Mr. Wahab emphasized that the government is committed to working with stakeholders to ensure fair and transparent regulation of the water sector.

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab warned that those who refuse to comply with the law will face penalties, with letters of ultimatum already issued to defaulters. Mr. Wahab emphasized that the government will take all necessary steps to ensure that regulatory provisions are enforced.

Mr. Tokunbo Wahab reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and public health, ensuring compliance with regulatory provisions for all entities using groundwater for production or consumption.