The Lagos State Government has appealed to residents to remain calm following the flash floods that affected several parts of the state in recent weeks, announcing emergency measures to improve flood management.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the immediate dredging and maintenance of 28 additional primary drainage channels after heavy rainfall triggered flooding in areas including Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja, Gbagada, Mushin and Mafoluku.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, attributed the flooding to an extreme weather event that brought an unusually high volume of rainfall within a short period, overwhelming drainage systems in some locations.
Wahab explained that Lagos’ unique coastal geography, extensive network of lagoons, rivers and creeks, coupled with high tidal conditions, often slows the discharge of stormwater into the Atlantic Ocean, resulting in temporary flooding in low-lying communities during periods of intense rainfall.
He noted that similar heavy rainfall and flooding were recorded in several African countries and parts of North America on the same day, stressing that the weather event was not exclusive to Lagos.
The commissioner assured residents that the state government is closely monitoring drainage infrastructure and flood-prone areas, while emergency response agencies have been deployed to support affected communities and ensure floodwaters recede as quickly as possible.
He added that the government will continue investing in drainage construction, channelisation, desilting and other flood-control projects, while urging residents to support efforts by keeping drainage channels free from waste and other obstructions.
