The Lagos State Government has appealed to residents to remain calm in the aftermath of the heavy downpour experienced over the past 12 hours. Authorities assured the public that robust flood management infrastructure has been established to effectively mitigate the impact of flash floods across the state.
The Lagos State Government has called on residents to remain calm and take necessary precautions after over 12 hours of uninterrupted rainfall resulted in widespread flash flooding across multiple parts of the city.
In an official statement released on Monday, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, emphasized the importance of public safety and urged citizens to stay alert during the current spell of intense weather. He reassured Lagosians that the state’s flood management infrastructure is designed to handle high volumes of rainwater but acknowledged that certain weather conditions may exceed current capacity.
NiMET warns of persistent Flooding
Wahab’s remarks came shortly after the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) issued a weather advisory warning of sustained heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected to persist across Lagos for the next 72 hours. The Commissioner noted that the unusually high volume of rainwater, particularly within a short timeframe, may temporarily overwhelm drainage systems, especially in low-lying areas and waterfront communities that are naturally prone to flooding.
“Lagos, being a coastal state, faces unique environmental challenges,” Wahab explained. “One of these challenges is the rise in lagoon water levels during prolonged rainfall, which often leads to tidal backflow—a situation where stormwater cannot flow out freely into the lagoon, resulting in temporary flooding in some areas.”
The Commissioner advised residents, particularly those living near riverbanks, wetlands, and coastal areas, to be especially cautious and prepare for possible flash floods. He emphasized that such floods could come with strong water currents, posing significant risks to life and property. He also appealed to parents and guardians to ensure that children remain indoors and avoid playing in or around floodwaters, as this could be extremely dangerous.
In addition, Wahab issued a stern warning to both pedestrians and motorists against attempting to wade or drive through flooded streets. He stressed that trying to cross submerged roads can result in serious accidents, vehicle breakdowns, or even loss of life, as vehicles may be swept away or become stuck in deep water.
The Commissioner also took the opportunity to criticize the persistent problem of indiscriminate waste disposal, especially the dumping of refuse into drains, canals, and waterways. He explained that such practices significantly impede the flow of stormwater, causing blockages that worsen the impact of flooding. He reiterated that the state government will continue to enforce strict penalties against those found violating environmental laws, as part of broader efforts to promote responsible waste management.
Proactive Flooding solutions
Providing an update on the government’s ongoing efforts to mitigate flooding, Wahab stated that the state remains committed to proactive drainage maintenance. This includes the regular clearing of major and minor drainages, as well as the awarding of new contracts for the concrete-lining of key water channels, aimed at improving long-term drainage capacity and enhancing the city’s flood resilience.
“However, when rainfall reaches levels beyond what is considered normal or manageable, as we have seen over the past 12 hours, we must recognize that collective responsibility is required,” the Commissioner stated. “Government alone cannot address all the challenges. Residents also have a crucial role to play by cooperating with authorities, keeping the environment clean, and staying informed about weather updates and safety advisories.”
To reassure the public, the government confirmed that emergency response teams have been fully activated and are on standby to provide assistance wherever needed. The statement concluded with an appeal to all Lagos residents to remain calm, exercise caution, and strictly adhere to official guidance throughout the ongoing rainy season.
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