Strategic Asset Management for Water Distribution Networks in Medium-Sized Nigerian Cities

Water distribution network asset management in medium-sized Nigerian cities is predominantly reactive and crisis-driven, resulting in preventable asset failures, high non-revenue water, and unplanned capital expenditure. This study develops a strategic asset management framework for water distribution networks in medium-sized Nigerian cities, using Ilorin (Kwara State), Makurdi (Benue State), and Owerri (Imo State) as case study utilities. A professional framework development methodology integrating infrastructure asset management theory and practical utility assessment was adopted. Asset inventory data, condition assessment records, and maintenance histories were collected from each utility, supplemented by interviews with utility managers and engineers. Asset condition distributions, remaining useful life estimates, and renewal cost projections were modelled. Results indicate that pipe age exceeds design service life in 48 to 67 percent of network length across the three utilities. Non-revenue water in all three systems exceeds 45 percent. Renewal investment requirements to restore asset condition to serviceable levels are estimated at 2.8 to 4.1 billion naira per utility over ten years. Current maintenance budgets represent 12 to 18 percent of estimated required investment levels. The strategic asset management framework proposed includes asset register development, condition-based maintenance prioritisation, risk-based renewal scheduling, and long-term financial planning tools. Adoption is recommended through the Ministry of Water Resources' National Water Sector Reform Programme.

Keywords: asset management, water distribution, utility management, medium-sized cities, Nigeria