By Abdullahi Lukman
The Lagos State Government has assured residents of its preparedness to manage the effects of the predicted heavy rainfall, stating that proactive measures have been taken and emergency response teams are fully operational.
Speaking after an inspection tour of the ongoing Lagos Island regeneration project, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the state had empowered the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang (EFAG) to operate throughout the year to prevent and control flooding across the metropolis.
The assurance follows a recent forecast by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) predicting heavy rains and potential flooding in Lagos and other states.
Wahab acknowledged residents’ concerns, particularly on Lagos Island, where ongoing construction has worsened flood conditions in some areas.
“The current inconveniences caused by construction work are temporary,” Wahab said. “We’re working toward a permanent solution to decades of flooding in areas such as Adeniji, Oroyinyin, Idumagbo, Ojo Giwa, Jankara, and Aroloya.
“We understand residents’ frustrations, but as the saying goes, you can’t make an omelet without breaking a few eggs.”
The commissioner disclosed that the regeneration project, which includes road elevation, new drainage systems, and urban planning improvements, is being executed in phases.
Timelines range from nine to twenty-four months, with the entire project expected to be completed within two years.
To manage flooding during construction, a temporary pumping station has been installed at the Adeniji Adele underbridge.
This will help control stormwater affecting surrounding streets, allowing construction work to continue with minimal disruption.
Wahab, accompanied by other state officials, also visited several flood-prone areas, including Ojo Giwa, Binuyo, Okoya Street, Aroloya, Dosumu, and Odi-Oluwo.
He ordered the removal of illegal shanties obstructing drainage around King Ado High School and the sealing of a building under construction for dumping materials into a drainage channel.
Reinforcing the state’s commitment to environmental protection, Wahab reiterated the ban on single-use plastics and Styrofoam, warning that non-compliance would attract penalties.
“We’re committed to advocacy, but we’ll also enforce and sanction. Citizens must stop dumping waste in drainages, roads, and open spaces,” he said.
The commissioner also addressed the reopening of a previously sealed perishable market, noting that it had shown significant improvement in cleanliness and compliance.
“Markets are the first point of contact for many Lagosians. Once the cleaning is done and verified, we’ll reopen them,” he said.
Wahab praised the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) for stepping in where private sector operators fall short.
“LAWMA has been doing a lot, clearing waste where necessary. Their trucks were on ground this morning to clean up the market,” he added.
As the rainy season approaches, Lagos State says it remains committed to safeguarding lives and property through improved infrastructure, environmental enforcement, and continuous community engagement.