Lagos targets 90% flood control ahead of 2027 rains — Commissioner

The Lagos State Government aims to achieve between 90 and 95 percent success in flood control before the 2027 rainy season by implementing resilient infrastructure and conducting year-round drainage maintenance. Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced these plans during an inspection of projects and disputed sites in Oregun, Surulere, and Osborne Foreshore Estate, Ikoyi.

The state has seen success rates between 75 and 80 percent in recent years, but Wahab emphasized the goal of surpassing this range by up to 90 or 95 percent due to additional infrastructure investments and environmental policies. He acknowledged that due to Lagos' coastal location, heavy rainfall, tidal movements, and rising sea levels, it is impossible to achieve 100 percent success against flooding, describing it as scientifically proven.

Wahab appealed to residents to remain calm during flash flooding, stating that water levels would recede after some time. The government is also strengthening environmental policies, such as banning Styrofoam and phasing out single-use plastics, to prevent waste from obstructing drainage channels. Wahab warned residents about the impacts of El Niño season weather, advising them to stay hydrated.

During the inspection exercise, Wahab reviewed projects and addressed complaints regarding encroachments on drainage channels and private property. At the Oregun Mixed-Use Scheme, the ministry resolved a conflict between property owners and auto mechanics occupying parts of their land and encroaching on System One, a natural drainage route.

Similarly, in Surulere, the ministry investigated a claim of construction encroaching on the right-of-way of a drainage channel and determined that there was no encroachment after measuring the area in front of witnesses. At Osborne Foreshore Estate, the ministry confirmed that the drainage structure did not encroach upon the government's drainage channel, reassuring residents and confirming that high-tension cables were not affected.