Lagos flooding triggers government response as officials blame drainage challenges and illegal constructions while urging residents’ cooperation

The Lagos State Government has expressed sympathy to residents affected by Wednesday’s flash floods that disrupted business and transport activities across the city.

Also read: Lagos halts illegal reclamation projects over flooding risk

In a statement on Thursday, the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources acknowledged the discomfort caused and assured Lagosians of ongoing measures to mitigate future incidents.

Officials noted that Lagos, as a coastal city, is naturally vulnerable during periods of heavy rainfall and tidal lock.

However, continuous investments in drainage infrastructure, routine desilting, and stricter enforcement of environmental laws are being deployed to reduce flooding risks.

The government explained that the situation at Kusenla was due to a technical challenge, with the downstream level about 1.2 metres higher than the drainage invert. A pumping station, now under construction, is part of the solution.

Flooding near House on the Rock church was attributed to illegal construction on floodplains and indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drains.

Authorities vowed to remove such infractions, including unlawful reclamations carried out without Environmental Impact Assessments or drainage clearance.

The Commissioner for Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, appealed for public cooperation: “Keeping our environment clean, avoiding dumping into drains, and stopping construction on floodplains are vital steps towards achieving a flood-free Lagos.”

He assured residents that most of the flash floods had receded by Thursday morning, stressing that while government efforts will continue, the support and responsible actions of citizens remain critical.