Policy, Regulation, and Governance of Sustainable Microbial Water Treatment Technologies in Nigeria: Pathways Toward SDG 6 Achievement

Abstract

This comprehensive review examines the current state and future potential of sustainable microbial water treatment technologies for addressing Nigeria's pervasive water quality and access challenges. Nigeria faces a critical public health crisis related to contaminated water sources, with studies revealing that non-potable water constitutes the majority of household supplies in urban and rural areas alike. This analysis synthesizes recent research on microbial contamination levels across Nigerian water systems, evaluates the technical feasibility and sustainability of various biological treatment technologies, and identifies implementation challenges and strategic pathways for integrating these solutions into public water management. The review incorporates evidence from bacteriological assessments of stored river water, sachet water production facilities, and household water sources across multiple Nigerian cities, revealing widespread contamination with pathogenic bacteria including Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Vibrio cholerae. Technological solutions range from low-cost point-of-use systems like biosand filtration and ceramic filters to more advanced community-scale biological treatment processes and innovative locally-developed adsorbents. Significant barriers to implementation include fragmented regulatory frameworks, unreliable electricity supplies, financial constraints, and limited technical capacity. The review proposes a multidimensional implementation strategy that combines appropriate technology selection, policy reform, financial innovation, and community engagement. By integrating sustainable microbial water treatment technologies with supportive governance structures and climate-resilient planning, Nigeria can make substantial progress toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (clean water and sanitation for all), while addressing the interconnected challenges of public health protection, environmental sustainability, and economic development.