Assessment of Water Supply Infrastructure and Distribution Losses in Kano Metropolis

Potable water supply in Kano metropolis, North West Nigeria, faces severe distribution losses attributed to aging infrastructure, illegal connections, and inadequate pressure management. This study assesses the performance of water supply infrastructure and quantifies distribution losses within the Kano metropolitan water distribution network. A descriptive survey methodology was adopted, combining network performance data from the Kano State Water Board, field measurements of pressure head at selected nodes, and visual inspection of 35 km of distribution mains across three supply zones. Water balance analysis was performed using the International Water Association water loss methodology. Structured interviews with 40 water utility staff and 80 household consumers provided supplementary operational data. Results reveal non-revenue water of approximately 52 percent, substantially above the acceptable threshold of 25 percent. Real losses from pipe leakage account for 61 percent of total non-revenue water, while commercial losses from unmetered connections account for 39 percent. Pressure deficiencies below 0.7 bar were recorded in 48 percent of measurement points during peak demand hours. The average network age of 38 years exceeds the design service life for most pipe materials installed. The study concludes that targeted network rehabilitation of the highest-loss sections, combined with bulk meter installation at zone boundaries, can achieve non-revenue water reductions of at least 20 percent within three years. A phased capital investment plan and smart pressure management programme are recommended for the Kano State Water Board.

Keywords: water supply, non-revenue water, distribution losses, water infrastructure, Kano metropolis