Flooding here to stay — for now
The Lagos State Government says flash flooding isn’t going away anytime soon, thanks to climate change and other environmental factors. But it’s promising bigger and better infrastructure to keep things under control.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said during a TV interview on Monday that over the past two years, the state has cleared more than 50km of secondary drainage channels and worked on 38 primary waterways across Lagos.
Rains, blocked drains, and quick fixes
Wahab pointed to the recent 14-hour downpour in Ikorodu, where a contractor’s temporary blockage had worsened flooding. Once the rain hit, the blockage was removed to help water flow out.
NIMET’s early warning in March led to citywide flood awareness campaigns from April, especially for low-lying communities like Agboyi, Agiliti, Itowolo, and Ajegunle, where residents were advised to relocate until waters recede.
Big drainage projects in the pipeline
So far, the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang has cleared over 666,000 metres of drains and manholes across all LGAs. Wahab said major drainage projects — including Systems 44 and 44A in Lekki, plus the three-phase Odo–Iyalaro project — are in progress. These will help channel stormwater from Ikeja, Opebi, and Sheraton straight into the lagoon.
Temporary pumping stations on Lagos Island are also helping to keep water levels down until permanent systems are complete.
Bottom line
“We won’t sugarcoat it — flash flooding will happen,” Wahab said. “But we’re ready, we’re improving drainage statewide, and we’re working on long-term fixes.”
