Picture this: A sunny Tuesday morning in the vibrant heart of Lagos, Ijora. The date is September 19, 2023. The air is buzzing with excitement as the talented Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy fellows embark on a mission to explore the past, present, and future of the Lagos Water Corporation.
A Walk Through History
First things first, let’s talk about the place itself. The Lagos Water Corporation’s headquarters, located in Ijora, radiates history. As we walked through its doors, it was impossible not to be captivated by the building’s ancient charm. Every corner seemed to whisper stories of years gone by. The grand architecture, adorned with intricate details, served as a tangible reminder of the corporation’s enduring legacy.



An Engaging Introduction
The session kicked off with a warm round of introductions. But the day took an exciting turn when the fellows were not just greeted by any host, but by the man himself, Mr. Mukhtaar Tijani, the Managing Director of the Lagos Water Corporation. Mr. Tijani is not your typical executive; he’s a fun, friendly, and incredibly intelligent individual with a wealth of experience in the oil and gas and power sectors. You could sense his passion for water supply from a mile away.
Unveiling the Past
Mr. Tijani kicked things off with a presentation that was nothing short of spectacular. He delved into the corporation’s mandate and its rich history, painting a vivid picture of how water supply has evolved in Lagos over the years. As he spoke, you could tell he had a deep connection with the subject matter. He brought to life the struggles and triumphs of the corporation as it navigated the ever-changing landscape of water supply in Lagos.
Navigating the Present Challenges
But that wasn’t all – Mr. Tijani also discussed the corporation’s current status in the realm of public water supply. He didn’t shy away from the challenges the corporation faces. Instead, he presented them as opportunities for growth and improvement. His insights left us inspired and motivated to be part of the solution. In a world where water scarcity is a pressing issue, his vision for sustainable water supply was a beacon of hope.
A Glimpse into the Future
As the brown bag session progressed, the focus shifted towards the future. What does the future hold for the Lagos Water Corporation? How can it adapt to the changing needs of a rapidly growing city? Mr. Tijani and the fellows explored various innovative solutions, from harnessing advanced technologies to bolstering partnerships with the private sector. It was a session like no other, and the room was brimming with optimism.
Fellows Ignite the Conversation
Now, here’s where the day gets interesting. Our brilliant fellows didn’t just sit back and listen; they actively engaged in the conversation. Oh no, they were on fire! They asked intellectually stimulating questions that probed the technicalities, sustainability, succession plans, weaknesses, strengths, and revenue of the corporation. It was a lively exchange of ideas that left us all in awe of their curiosity and determination. Their thirst for knowledge and their commitment to finding solutions to complex problems were truly commendable.
Inspiration in Abundance
In conclusion, the brown bag session at the Lagos Water Corporation was nothing short of incredible. We not only got a glimpse into the past and present but also gained valuable insights into the future of water supply in Lagos. Mr. Tijani’s passion and knowledge were infectious, and the fellows’ enthusiasm and inquisitiveness were truly inspiring.
The Lagos Water Corporation is not just a provider of water; it’s a custodian of history, a driver of change, and a beacon of hope for a water-secure future in Lagos. As we left the session, we couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to witness such a transformative experience. The brown bag session at the Lagos Water Corporation will undoubtedly be one for the books, a chapter in the ongoing story of water supply in Lagos, and a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and determination.