Public-Private-People partnership for sustainable portable water supply system in Nigeria

Abstract

In an attempt to achieve the target of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs in respect of reducing in halve the population without access to safe drinking water by 2015, developing countries requires extra efforts. One of such efforts in Nigeria is the government’s call for private sector participation in the provision of drinking water. In response, the private sector has been involved since 1995 but up till today, only about 45% of Nigeria population has access to potable water. In recognition of water as a ‘social good’ which does not have to be left solely with the private sector, this study focused on searching for the best practice against the ‘Public-Private Participation’ policy of the government. The study began with the understanding of the quality of water from available sources vis-à-vis human health; and proceeded to government and private role in water provision. The study recommends the need for the government and private sectors to involve the end-users. Hence, it proposes ‘Public-Private-People Participation’ (PPPP/4Ps) for sustainable drinking water provision in Nigeria. The processes of adopting this plan are also recommended