The Lagos State Government has called on residents to remain calm and alert following over 12 hours of relentless rainfall across the state.
In a statement released Monday by the Director of Public Affairs, Kunle Adeshina, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, reassured the public that Lagos has resilient infrastructure in place to mitigate the impact of flash floods.
Wahab cited a new weather advisory from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), issued earlier today, which forecasts continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms over the next 72 hours.
He acknowledged that despite ongoing drainage efforts, flash flooding in some areas may still occur due to the volume of rainfall overwhelming drainage channels.
“Given the geographical nature of Lagos as a coastal city and the increasing effects of climate change, flash flooding is an unfortunate but expected challenge,” Wahab explained. “The rising water levels in the lagoon will likely cause tidal locking, a condition that temporarily prevents stormwater from draining through the existing channels.”
The Commissioner advised residents living in flood-prone or low-lying areas to exercise heightened caution, especially as current weather conditions are likely to trigger flash floods in neighborhoods near rivers and lagoons.
“These floodwaters can be fast-moving and dangerous. We urge residents, particularly parents, to prevent children from playing in or around flooded areas,” he said.
Wahab also issued a strong warning to both pedestrians and motorists, discouraging them from wading or driving through flooded roads, as such actions pose significant safety risks. Vehicles may become submerged, and individuals can be swept away by powerful flood currents.
He further addressed the issue of indiscriminate waste disposal, emphasizing its direct link to clogged drainage systems. Residents were reminded of the legal and environmental consequences of dumping refuse into gutters and drains.
According to Wahab, the state government has been ramping up its year-round cleaning of drainage channels and has also awarded contracts for the construction of concrete-lined drains to better manage stormwater.
While assuring Lagosians that proactive steps are being taken, Wahab stressed that exceptional rainfall events, such as the current downpour, demand coordinated action from both the government and the public.
“We must all play our part in reducing the impact of flooding. The government is doing its part, but community awareness and responsibility are equally crucial during times like this,” he concluded.
