Arthur Richard
Lagos, Nigeria – January 7, 2025 – Water.org has awarded a $200,000 grant to LAPO Microfinance Bank (LAPO MfB) to advance its Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives in Nigeria. This collaboration is set to empower underserved communities by improving access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene solutions, fostering healthier and more sustainable living conditions.
Building on the successes of its WASH loan adoption program across 56 groups in Kano and Jigawa states, LAPO MfB plans to scale the WASH program across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. The initiative will focus on delivering innovative financial solutions as part of the bank’s social impact strategic move.
The WaterCredit program will adopt a holistic approach, targeting diverse populations with a particular focus on Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Guided by market research, LAPO MfB will develop tailored financial products delivered through conventional branch networks and digital channels. By the program’s conclusion in December 2027, the bank aims to provide WASH financing solutions to 12,000 households and 500 SMEs.
In a statement, Oluremi Akande, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications at LAPO Microfinance Bank, added, “We are thrilled to receive this generous grant from Water.org, which marks a significant milestone in our efforts to provide sustainable water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) solutions to underserved communities across Nigeria. This collaboration aligns perfectly with our mission to uplift lives and foster socio-economic development through innovative financial services.”
Water.org’s extensive experience in empowering communities with access to affordable water and sanitation solutions will be pivotal to the success of this partnership. Having positively impacted over 73 million people worldwide, Water.org’s innovative approach ensures lasting change, and this collaboration with LAPO MfB is a testament to their commitment to driving meaningful transformation.
