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In a bid to promote balanced development, the Ogun State Government has finalized plans to incorporate cutting-edge technology and digital solutions into its water production and distribution systems throughout various communities.
The administration stated that this initiative aims to improve the efficiency of water supply, maintain production levels, and guarantee quality across the state.
During an evaluation tour of water generation facilities in Abeokuta, the state capital, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Water Resources, Hon. Damilola Otubanjo, made this announcement.
Otubanjo underscored the government's dedication to ensuring that the Ogun State Water Corporation not only produces water but does so in a sustainable manner, with a strong emphasis on quality control.
"We must automate our processes and utilize digital technology to boost operational efficiency. Some of our current systems are outdated, and we need to seek innovative solutions to enhance water production and distribution," she remarked.
The governor’s aide also pointed out significant challenges in the water sector, particularly regarding maintenance and quality assurance, noting that an enhanced monitoring framework would be established to ensure adherence to water safety standards.
To improve revenue generation and accountability, Otubanjo disclosed the government's intention to shift customers from flat-rate and postpaid billing systems to prepaid meters, ensuring fairness and mutual benefits for all stakeholders.
"At present, a considerable portion of our water supply is classified as non-revenue water due to customers' non-payment, either because they do not receive adequate supply or are billed at a flat rate. By moving to prepaid metering, consumers will only pay for the water they actually use, promoting fairness and enhancing revenue collection," she elaborated.
Otubanjo mentioned that the government is considering the use of sensors and smart meters to monitor water quality and quantity, facilitating better resource management and revenue estimation.
She assured residents of improved service delivery, including a more proactive approach to addressing pipe bursts and leaks, urging the public to actively report such issues to ensure a more efficient water supply system.
"We are committed to significantly improving our response time to pipeline damages. Our goal is to resolve burst pipes within 24 hours. We also encourage residents to report any water-related issues through our toll-free helpline (07080601161), and we promise prompt action," she stated.
She further emphasized the need for public awareness and advocacy, announcing that the government would launch extensive sensitization campaigns to restore public trust in the Ogun State Water Corporation.
Earlier, Consultant to the Governor on Water Resources, Olufunmilayo Jaji, highlighted the existence of multiple water supply schemes across the state, including: Papa Water Works – serving Papalanto, Ilaro, and Ifo; Ota 2 Scheme – supplying Ota; Ijebu-Ode Yemoji Scheme – covering parts of Ijebu-Ode; Apoje Scheme – catering to Ijebu-Igbo and Ago-Iwoye; and Various Borehole Schemes – serving communities statewide.
Jaji urged residents to pay their water bills promptly to sustain these services and encouraged them to report burst pipes to prevent contamination of the water supply.
Chairman of Workers’ Estate, Laderin, Abeokuta, Olatunji Oladapo, praised the government's commitment to enhancing water infrastructure, expressing hope that these initiatives would eliminate water supply disruptions in the estate.
As part of the government's ongoing efforts, the assessment tour included key water infrastructure sites such as: Oke-Temidire Water Reservoir, Abiola Way, Ogun State Water Corporation (Old and New Schemes), Arakanga, Alamala Booster Station, Car Wash Booster Station, Panseke Booster Station, Ibara Booster Station, Abeokuta Area Office, and Laderin Borehole Scheme.
The Ogun State Government remains committed to modernizing its water sector, ensuring sustainable access to clean water for all residents.
