Lagos Warns Borehole Operators Against Drilling Without Permits

The Lagos State Government has warned borehole operators to obtain the necessary permits before drilling or extracting groundwater, saying offenders risk having their facilities sealed and facing prosecution.

The Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission (LASWARCO) said illegal borehole drilling and groundwater extraction could contaminate underground water sources, cause land subsidence and put the state’s water resources at risk.

The warning comes as concerns grow over groundwater pollution in Lekki, where residents have previously been cautioned against consuming potentially contaminated water because of poor wastewater treatment.

In August 2025, the Permanent Secretary of the Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Mahmood Adegbite, raised concerns about the quality of water in the area.

Adegbite warned that residents could be exposed to polluted water due to inadequate wastewater treatment practices.

LASWARCO’s latest warning highlights the need for borehole operators to comply with regulations before drilling or extracting groundwater. The commission also made clear that operators who fail to obtain the required permits could face enforcement action, including the sealing of their facilities and prosecution.

The directive is aimed at protecting underground water sources and reducing the risks associated with uncontrolled groundwater extraction across Lagos State.