The Lagos State Government has said that flash flooding is an unavoidable reality due to the state’s coastal location, while urging residents not to worsen the situation through indiscriminate dumping of refuse on roads and into drainage channels.
It explained that although flash floods cannot be completely prevented in a coastal city like Lagos, efforts are ongoing to reduce their impact through continuous investment in drainage infrastructure, flood control systems, and environmental management.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, noted that Lagos’ geography makes it highly vulnerable to heavy rainfall and temporary flooding. He stressed that the focus of government is to manage and reduce the effects rather than eliminate them entirely.
He also highlighted the responsibility of residents in preventing avoidable flooding, warning that improper waste disposal often blocks drainage channels when rainwater carries refuse into them, thereby worsening flood conditions in several communities.
According to him, Lagos must confront its environmental realities as a coastal city, especially in the face of climate change and rising sea levels. He explained that parts of the state lie below sea level, making them particularly susceptible during periods of heavy rainfall and tidal movements, which can temporarily slow down stormwater discharge.
The government, he added, continues to invest in resilient infrastructure to strengthen flood control systems and improve water management across the state.
He reiterated that while flash flooding may not be completely avoidable in Lagos, sustained infrastructure development and responsible waste disposal by residents remain essential to reducing its impact.
