The newly appointed Managing Director of Ogun Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA), Engr Adedeji Ashiru has emphasized the importance of engineering innovation in reducing the cost of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) projects.
Engr Ashiru who spoke at the 5th edition of the Lagos International Water Conference (LIWAC) 2024, themed “Financing Water and Sanitation for Greater Lagos,” and which took place on June 24-25, 2024, in Lagos, highlighted the need for effective and efficient water treatment technologies that require less energy, such as harnessing solar, wind, or hydro power to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower energy costs.
The two-day event brought together stakeholders from the public and private sectors to brainstorm solutions to water resource management challenges.
During a panel discussion on “Innovative Financing,” Engr. Dr. Adedeji Ashiru, stressed the benefits of decentralized and modular systems, which can reduce infrastructure costs and enable easier maintenance.
Ashiru also emphasized the potential of renewable energy integration and the implementation of cost-effective, eco-friendly sanitation technologies like container-based toilets or decentralized wastewater treatment to significantly reduce costs. He concluded that by embracing engineering innovation, WASH projects can become more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective, ultimately improving the lives of millions in Lagos.
Earlier, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urged the organizers to identify challenges and sources for long-term funding to galvanize sustainable action required to complete the Adiyan Water Treatment Plant, which will produce 70 billion gallons of water for the people. The Special Guest of Honour, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, emphasized the need for collaborative efforts to address the challenges of water resources and sanitation in Lagos.
The event was attended by dignitaries, including the Consul General of Denmark, Lagos, Mrs. Jetta Bjerrum; Consular General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mike Deleen; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources in Lagos State, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; Executive Secretary, Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission, Funke Adepoju, and others.
