Following over 12 hours of uninterrupted rainfall that led to flash floods across several parts of Lagos, the Lagos State Government has issued a public appeal for calm, vigilance, and adherence to safety protocols.
In a statement released on Monday, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, addressed the situation, assuring residents that the state’s flood management systems are operational and capable of handling the current weather conditions.
However, he noted that certain areas—particularly those in low-lying and coastal zones—may temporarily experience disruptions due to overwhelmed drainage channels.
Mr. Wahab explained that Lagos, being a coastal city, is naturally prone to flooding during periods of heavy and sustained rainfall. He added that tidal locks, often caused by rising lagoon levels during such intense downpours, can restrict the effective discharge of stormwater into the sea, exacerbating the flooding.
The government’s warning followed a weather advisory issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), forecasting continued heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across Lagos over the next three days. This advisory has heightened concerns about possible further disruptions in flood-prone areas.
In light of the risks, the commissioner advised parents to ensure their children remain indoors, especially in communities close to rivers, lagoons, or major water bodies. He also cautioned motorists and pedestrians to avoid attempting to wade or drive through flooded roads, warning that such actions could result in vehicles being submerged or individuals being swept away by strong currents.
Mr. Wahab took the opportunity to highlight the critical role residents play in mitigating flood risks, particularly by properly disposing of waste. He emphasized that the indiscriminate dumping of refuse in gutters and drainage channels blocks water flow, worsens flooding, and violates environmental laws. Offenders, he said, would face legal sanctions as part of the government’s zero-tolerance approach to environmental abuse.
While outlining the state’s proactive flood control measures, Wahab noted that Lagos carries out continuous drainage clearing operations year-round. Additionally, the state has awarded contracts for the concrete-lining of key drainage systems to improve stormwater discharge and boost climate resilience.
“However,” the commissioner added, “in instances of exceptional rainfall like we have witnessed over the past 12 hours, individual and collective responsibility becomes even more important to reduce the adverse impact.”
To ensure public safety, the government has placed its emergency response teams on high alert and reiterated its commitment to providing rapid support where needed. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels, comply with environmental regulations, and observe all safety advisories during this rainy season.