Lagos begins enforcement against Kuramo Beach reclamation and illegal drainage encroachments, ordering demolitions to reduce flooding and protect waterways.
The Lagos State Government has announced decisive measures to stop what it described as an unauthorized reclamation project around the Kuramo Beach corridor, while also launching a fresh enforcement operation against illegal structures obstructing drainage channels across the Lekki-Epe axis.
The move is part of a broader strategy to reduce flooding, protect critical waterways, and preserve the state’s fragile coastal ecosystem.
The announcement followed an extensive inspection tour led by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who visited several drainage projects and identified multiple environmental violations in Ajiran, the Mehabond Estate area, and nearby communities.
During the exercise, officials assessed blocked drainage channels, wetlands that had been encroached upon, and buildings erected on natural stormwater routes.
According to the commissioner, Lagos can no longer overlook activities that interfere with drainage infrastructure or threaten the state’s ability to manage floodwater during the rainy season.
He stressed that preserving natural waterways is essential for public safety and sustainable urban development.
A major concern raised during the inspection was the ongoing reclamation activity around Kuramo Beach, located along the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway corridor.
Wahab explained that Kuramo Waters serves as a natural outlet connected to the Atlantic Ocean and plays a vital role in channeling stormwater away from surrounding communities.
Blocking or altering the water body’s natural flow, he warned, could significantly increase the risk of flooding in parts of Victoria Island, Lekki, and adjoining areas.
He disclosed that the state government had already contacted relevant representatives of the Federal Government after observing signposts and activities indicating plans to reclaim the area.
While acknowledging the importance of infrastructure development, the commissioner maintained that environmental protection must remain a priority.
According to him, Kuramo Waters has existed for decades and remains one of the natural systems that support Lagos’ flood management efforts.
Any attempt to reclaim the area without considering its environmental function, he said, could create long-term consequences for residents and businesses located nearby.
Beyond the Kuramo Beach issue, the commissioner announced that enforcement teams would begin removing structures built on drainage alignments, wetlands, floodplains, and natural channels that discharge stormwater into the lagoon.
The operation, scheduled to commence immediately, targets buildings and other developments found to be obstructing the free flow of water.
Officials explained that blocked drainage systems are among the leading causes of urban flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
By clearing illegal obstructions, the government hopes to improve the movement of stormwater and reduce the impact of seasonal flooding across vulnerable communities.
The commissioner also directed ministry enforcement officers to seal several properties cited for various environmental violations during the inspection.
He emphasized that ownership or social status would not protect anyone found violating environmental regulations.
Wahab stated that every illegal structure identified along drainage corridors would be removed in accordance with existing environmental laws.
He added that the government would continue monitoring affected locations to ensure compliance with its directives and prevent fresh encroachments after the enforcement exercise.
He further noted that teams had received immediate approval to reopen blocked drainage channels leading to the lagoon.
Follow-up inspections, he said, would be conducted later in the week to evaluate the progress of the operation and confirm that affected waterways had been fully cleared.
Environmental experts have consistently warned that rapid urban expansion, indiscriminate land reclamation, and the construction of buildings on wetlands continue to weaken natural drainage systems in coastal cities.
Such practices often increase flood risks, damage infrastructure, and expose residents to avoidable environmental hazards.
For many residents, the latest enforcement drive signals a renewed commitment by the state government to strengthen environmental compliance, particularly during the peak of the rainy season when drainage systems are placed under greater pressure.
The government has repeatedly urged property owners, developers, and residents to respect approved drainage alignments and avoid activities capable of obstructing waterways.
Authorities believe sustained enforcement, combined with public cooperation, will help improve flood resilience and protect lives, property, and public infrastructure.
As Lagos continues to expand through major infrastructure projects and urban development, officials insist that environmental sustainability must remain central to planning decisions.
They argue that balancing economic growth with the protection of natural ecosystems is necessary to safeguard the state’s future and reduce the devastating impact of flooding on communities.
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