Lagos Appeals for Calm Over Flash Floodingog

Lagos Appeals for Calm Over Flash Flooding
Approves Dredging of 28 Drainage Channels
Blames Climate Change

The Lagos State Government has appealed to residents to remain calm following the widespread flash flooding recorded across several parts of the state in recent weeks, announcing that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the immediate dredging and maintenance of 28 additional primary drainage channels to strengthen flood control efforts.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the announcement on Tuesday while addressing the recent heavy rainfall that triggered flooding in communities including Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja, Gbagada, Mushin, Mafoluku and other parts of Lagos.

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Wahab explained that the flooding was caused by an extreme weather event that produced an unusually high volume of rainfall within a short period, overwhelming drainage systems in some areas and leading to temporary flooding.

He noted that the incident was not unique to Lagos, saying similar heavy rainfall affected several African countries and parts of North America during the same period.

According to the commissioner, Lagos faces a more complex hydrological challenge because of its extensive network of lagoons, rivers, creeks and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.

He explained that during periods of high tide, the discharge of stormwater into the sea becomes slower, making temporary flooding unavoidable in some low-lying communities whenever exceptionally heavy rainfall occurs.

Wahab assured residents that the government was closely monitoring drainage infrastructure, flood-prone locations and major water channels across the state.

He added that emergency response agencies have remained on the ground to support affected communities and ensure floodwaters recede as quickly as conditions allow.

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The commissioner stressed that while the government continues to invest heavily in drainage construction, desilting, channelisation and other flood control infrastructure, residents also have a responsibility to support flood prevention efforts.

He urged residents to avoid dumping refuse into drains and waterways, reclaiming wetlands illegally or building on drainage alignments, warning that such activities obstruct the free flow of stormwater and worsen flooding.

Wahab also attributed the increasing frequency of heavy rainfall to the effects of climate change, noting that coastal cities around the world are experiencing more extreme weather conditions.

He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to building a flood-resilient Lagos through sustained infrastructure development, environmental enforcement and public cooperation.

The commissioner advised motorists to avoid driving through flooded roads during heavy rainfall and urged residents, particularly those living in flood-prone areas, to pay attention to weather advisories and safety instructions issued by government agencies.