The Lagos State Government has warned residents and borehole operators against unauthorised drilling and groundwater extraction, threatening to seal facilities found violating existing regulations and prosecute offenders.
The warning was issued by the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) amid growing concerns over indiscriminate groundwater extraction across the state.
In a statement, the Commission’s Executive Secretary, Barr. Oluwabukola Khadijah Adeyemo, said LASWARCO was empowered under the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, to regulate borehole drilling, groundwater abstraction and water supply services.
Adeyemo cautioned that indiscriminate groundwater extraction and the operation of illegal boreholes could pose serious environmental and public health risks.
She explained that unauthorised drilling could lead to groundwater contamination, land subsidence and other environmental challenges, while also threatening the long-term sustainability of Lagos’ water resources.
The Executive Secretary urged individuals, organisations and businesses planning to drill boreholes or extract groundwater to obtain the necessary permits and approvals from the Commission before commencing operations.
She emphasised that operating boreholes without the required authorisation constituted a violation of the law and could attract regulatory sanctions.
Adeyemo further warned that the Commission would not hesitate to seal facilities found operating illegally and prosecute those responsible in accordance with relevant legal provisions.
The warning comes against the backdrop of persistent concerns over water supply in Lagos, where many households and businesses rely heavily on private boreholes and other alternative sources due to limited access to public water infrastructure.
The Commission reiterated the need for responsible groundwater management, urging residents and operators to comply with regulatory requirements to protect public health, preserve the environment and ensure sustainable water availability across the state.
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