Lagos Govt Assures Residents of Adequate Flood Control Measures Amid Flash Flood Concerns

The Lagos State Government has moved to calm fears among residents over the recent incidence of flash floods in parts of the state, assuring that adequate infrastructure is in place to manage and mitigate flooding. The government stated that its agencies are on high alert to respond swiftly to any emergencies as the rainy season progresses.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the government has invested heavily in drainage infrastructure, dredging of canals, and clearing of blocked waterways to ensure water flows freely during heavy rainfall. According to him, the flash floods experienced in certain areas were caused by the intensity of recent downpours, but in most cases, the water receded within a few hours.

Wahab explained that Lagos, due to its geographical location and low-lying terrain, is naturally prone to flooding, but the state has adopted proactive measures to reduce the impact. He said that continuous monitoring of flood-prone areas, enforcement against illegal dumping of refuse into drains, and construction of new drainage channels have all contributed to improving the city’s resilience against seasonal flooding.

The commissioner also highlighted that the government has strengthened its partnership with the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) to receive real-time weather updates and early warnings. This collaboration, he noted, allows agencies to prepare ahead and alert residents in vulnerable locations, ensuring they take precautionary measures.

He urged residents to complement government efforts by desisting from practices that block drainage systems, such as indiscriminate dumping of solid waste and construction on waterways. He stressed that community participation is crucial to the success of flood management strategies, as government interventions alone cannot completely eliminate the risks without the cooperation of the public.

Furthermore, Wahab disclosed that the state’s emergency response teams, including the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), have been adequately equipped to handle rescue operations during extreme weather events. He added that public awareness campaigns are ongoing in local communities to educate people about flood risks, emergency contacts, and evacuation routes.

The commissioner reiterated the government’s commitment to completing ongoing drainage expansion projects in areas such as Surulere, Mushin, Ikorodu, and Lagos Island, which are known to be susceptible to flooding. He assured that these projects are being executed with speed and precision to ensure they deliver long-term solutions.

In addition, he noted that the government is working on integrating flood control measures into urban planning and infrastructure development. This includes ensuring that all new housing estates and commercial projects meet the state’s flood resilience standards before approvals are granted.

Wahab emphasised that the government is aware of the inconvenience and damage caused by flooding and is determined to minimise its occurrence. He encouraged residents to make use of the state’s emergency hotlines to report flooding incidents, blocked drains, or illegal dumping, so swift action can be taken.

The commissioner also mentioned that beyond physical infrastructure, the state is adopting nature-based solutions such as tree planting, green spaces, and wetland preservation to naturally absorb excess rainwater and improve environmental sustainability.

Looking ahead, Wahab said the government will continue to intensify its flood prevention strategies, invest in modern drainage technology, and promote public-private partnerships to finance and maintain critical infrastructure.

As the rainy season continues, the Lagos State Government has called for calm, assuring that it is fully prepared to manage the situation effectively. It pledged to keep residents informed and engaged, ensuring that no community is left without support in the event of flooding.

By maintaining a combination of robust infrastructure, strict enforcement, and community collaboration, the government aims to safeguard lives, protect property, and sustain the economic activities that drive Lagos as Nigeria’s commercial hub.