Adjusting institutional arrangements: towards improved governance of self-supply water systems in Uyo, Nigeria

Improved access to water supply in sub-Saharan Africa is increasing. However, the driver for this increase is not water supplied by water utility companies but alternative sources of supply. As the trend continues, there is need to move beyond clamour for access to address water governance in order to contribute to sustainable supply of water to water users. To scrutinise the water governance concerns, a case study of institutional arrangements in water supply in Uyo, Nigeria was assessed using interviews, documentary reviews and observations. The key findings are discussed in relation to eight institutional arrangements for water supply and are related to effect on improved water governance. This paper concludes with potential implications for self supply water systems in Uyo, all the major cities in Nigeria and in most cities in sub-Saharan Africa, and recommends areas where further research could focus.