Lagos State has begun urgent actions to address growing concerns over the risk of severe flooding in 2025.
The state was recently listed among 30 Nigerian states, including the Federal Capital Territory, expected to face serious flood events.
This forecast was released by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA), which identified 1,249 communities as high-risk zones, with 2,187 others at moderate risk.
In response, the Lagos State Government has set up a temporary pumping station to help reduce water build-up in the most affected communities.
Areas like Aroloya Street, Ojo-Giwa, Binuyo, and Oroyinyin on Lagos Island have recently experienced heavy flooding due to blocked drainage systems.
The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, shared this development in a public statement on Thursday.
He said the pumping station was located at the Adeniji Adele Underbridge to support quick water evacuation.
According to him, this location was chosen carefully to avoid disrupting ongoing construction in those areas.
“The government is aware of the discomfort and flooding some areas are experiencing due to blocked drains. These are temporary issues that will be resolved once construction is complete. We are doing everything possible to ease the situation while progress continues,” Wahab said.
He pointed out that the flooding was mainly caused by temporary blockages linked to construction works currently going on in those parts of the Island.
These works are part of the wider regeneration project designed to transform Lagos Island.
In addition, the commissioner urged Lagos residents to be calm, noting that the situation is under control.
He also called for their cooperation, especially in the area of proper waste disposal.
This, he said, would support the government’s ongoing flood control measures.
“Residents need to work with us, particularly by managing their waste properly,” he added. “This is crucial to making our flood response and regeneration project a success.”
Meanwhile, this development is seen as part of the state government’s effort to protect lives and property.
The action also shows the government’s concern for the wellbeing of the people, especially in high-risk areas.
Furthermore, experts have continued to call for strict measures to prevent situations that lead to environmental disasters.
Many believe that public awareness, proper drainage maintenance, and quick intervention are vital steps to avoid future incidents.
