Imo Validates LGA WASH Scheme of Service to Strengthen Service Delivery
Imo State has commenced validation of the proposed LGA WASH Scheme of Service to strengthen institutions.
By Paschal Opara
The Imo State Government, through the Ministry of Water Resources, has commenced the verification and validation of the proposed Local Government Area (LGA) Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Scheme of Service to strengthen institutional capacity and ensure sustainable service delivery across the state’s 27 LGAs.
The two-day stakeholders’ meeting, held on September 29th–30th, 2026, at Beland Swiss Hotel, Owerri, brought together relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), local government representatives and WASH stakeholders.
The Honourable Commissioner for Water Resources, Ozo Obinna Ogwuegbu, emphasized the need for strong institutions and qualified personnel to sustain WASH investments, including the rehabilitation of the Otamiri Water Project.
The Hon. Commissioner for Health and Social Services, Dr. Mrs. Chioma Egu, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safe water, sanitation and hygiene, while the Chairman, House Committee on WASH, Hon. Princewill Ugochukwu Amuchie, pledged legislative support. The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Water Resources, Chief Chibuikem Izuwa Obilor, PhD, described the reform as part of the implementation of the Imo State WASH Policy 2019.
Technical sessions led by WASH Reform Lead/Consultant, Dr. Theodora Ngozika Igboaruka, featured institutional assessment findings, stakeholder analysis and a review of proposed departmental structures, staffing cadres and responsibilities.
The meeting concluded with the signing of a stakeholder communiqué outlining agreed actions. The initiative is expected to establish functional WASH departments in all 27 LGAs, strengthen accountability and professional capacity, and improve coordination for sustainable WASH services across Imo State.