This paper focuses on governance without government in water provision. It
analyses the concept of governance by examining the broad array of water
provision channels in Lagos, Nigeria. It traces the historical and ideological
antecedents, leading to the withdrawal of state from basic services and the
subsequent involvement of Non-state Actors (NSAs) in the provision of basic
services. The paper, specifically, looks at the role both state and NSAs play in
the provision of water, by assessing their role in the water distribution chain. The
NSAs providers of water have a substantial share of the market of water
provision, 70% while state has 30%. And yet, the state does not create the
enabling environment for them to operate as the majority of NSAs are not
recognized and regulated by the government. However, the merit good nature of
water demands well functioning institutional and regulatory frameworks. The
paper argues therefore, that the state has failed in its role as a provider and
regulator in the production and delivery of potable water in Lagos. It maintained
that for there to be equity, efficiency and effectiveness in water provision that can
promote social and economic development, the state must recognize, facilitate
and regulate NSAs.