The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting drainage infrastructure and enforcing environmental regulations against encroachment.
This reaffirmation was made by Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, when he conducted an on-the-spot assessment of strategic locations across the state to address public complaints and ensure the integrity of drainage right-of-way.
Wahab explained that the exercise was part of the government’s proactive approach to addressing issues raised by residents, as well as monitoring projects identified for intervention by the Ministry.
The inspection tour covered Odo Iya Alaro by Opebi Link Bridge, Modupe Johnson Crescent, off Adeniran Ogunsanya, Surulere, and Osborne Foreshore Phase II Estate, Ikoyi, where the Commissioner assessed reported cases of encroachment, verified drainage alignments and reassured residents of the government’s commitment to safeguarding public infrastructure and private property.
Speaking on the state’s flood mitigation efforts ahead of the next rainy season, Wahab stated that Lagos had recorded between 75 and 80 per cent success in its flood abatement initiatives, while emphasising that achieving complete elimination of flooding was unrealistic given the state’s coastal location and geographical peculiarities.
Wahab further disclosed that the present administration had remained deliberate in its approach to flood management through year-round deployment of the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang (EFAG), investment in resilient drainage infrastructure, the ban on Styrofoam food containers and policies aimed at transitioning away from single-use plastics.
The Commissioner also advised residents to take necessary precautions against the prevailing hot weather conditions, including regular hydration and adequate water intake.
He noted that extreme weather events occurring across different parts of the world further demonstrated the reality of climate change and the need for Lagos to continue strengthening its environmental resilience.
Wahab reiterated that the state government would sustain its monitoring of drainage infrastructure, enforce regulations against unauthorised encroachment and ensure that ongoing and planned projects complied with approved environmental standards.
He urged residents to cooperate with the government by respecting drainage right-of-way, reporting suspected encroachments and supporting initiatives aimed at building a cleaner, safer and flood-resilient Lagos.