NAE: LESS THAN 20% OF NIGERIA’S URBAN WASTEWATER PROPERLY TREATED

The Nigerian Academy of Engineering (NAE) has raised concern over the country’s low capacity for urban wastewater treatment, estimating that less than 20 percent of wastewater generated in cities is properly treated.

The academy said the situation poses significant environmental and public health risks, particularly in densely populated urban areas where sanitation infrastructure remains inadequate.

According to experts, untreated wastewater contributes to water pollution, the spread of diseases, and degradation of natural ecosystems.

The NAE noted that rapid urbanisation has outpaced the development of modern wastewater treatment facilities, leaving many cities without sufficient infrastructure to manage waste effectively.

It called for increased investment in sanitation systems, including treatment plants, drainage networks, and sustainable water management technologies.

The academy also urged government authorities to strengthen regulatory enforcement and encourage public-private partnerships to improve infrastructure delivery.

Experts warned that failure to address the challenge could worsen health outcomes and increase environmental degradation in the coming years.

Stakeholders emphasized that improving wastewater management is critical to achieving sustainable urban development and protecting public health.