Climate Change: ‘Lagos Is Sinking’ – Deputy Gov Issues Urgent Warning on Rising Sea Levels

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat, has voiced concerns about the imminent risk of submersion due to climate change.

Speaking at a Strategic Management Meeting organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, which included various Ministries, Departments, Agencies (MDAs), and stakeholders, he warned that Lagos could face the same sinking fate as New York City if appropriate measures are not implemented.

Hamzat underscored the urgent threat of flooding in Lagos, calling on residents to take proactive steps to prevent potential natural disasters. He cited examples from the United Kingdom and New York City, where climate-related issues have prompted residents to relocate to safer areas.

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With a coastline spanning 180 kilometers, Lagos is surrounded by water, making it particularly vulnerable. “Today, Lagos and New York City are sinking,” he stated.

He identified three critical threats facing the state: extreme heat, climate change, and rising sea levels. The Deputy Governor emphasized the need for the state to reassess its priorities over the next 20 to 25 years to identify which regions require preservation.

In his opening remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, clarified that the purpose of the stakeholders’ meeting was to reduce government litigation in courts, thereby relieving the justice delivery system of unnecessary cases.

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Meanwhile, the Ogun State government has advised residents in flood-prone areas to seek higher ground following the recent release of water from the Oyan Dam. The affected areas include Isheri, Riverview Estate, Oshorun Estate, OPIC Estate, Arepo, Mawere, Akute, Alagbole, Orimerunmu, and Magboro.

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, made this announcement in response to flooding caused by the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority’s release of excess water from the Oyan Dam. He explained that this action was necessary to prevent severe damage.

Oresanya assured residents that the floodwaters are expected to recede significantly starting Friday, October 25, through the designated waterways, watercourses, and canals that have been dredged for this purpose.

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