Sanwo-Olu Orders Dredging of 28 More Channels as Lagos Battles Flood After Heavy Rains

The Lagos State Government has urged residents to remain calm after two weeks of heavy rainfall and flash floods, and has approved the dredging of 28 more primary drainage channels to boost flood management.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave the go-ahead for the emergency intervention to strengthen the state’s drainage system.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the downpours were an extreme weather event that dumped huge amounts of water in a short time. The surge overwhelmed drains in some areas and led to temporary flooding in Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikeja, Gbagada, Mushin, Mafoluku and other parts of the state.

Wahab noted that Lagos was not alone, as other African nations and parts of North America also recorded severe rains and flooding within the same period.

He, however, said Lagos faces a tougher hydrological situation due to its many lagoons, rivers, creeks and tidal waters, plus its high rainfall levels.

He explained that during high tide, the meeting of the Atlantic Ocean, Lagos Lagoon and inland waterways slows how fast stormwater flows into the sea. That delay, he said, often causes brief flooding in low-lying areas during very heavy rains.

The commissioner said the government is closely watching drains, flood-prone zones and major channels across Lagos. Emergency teams have also been sent to affected areas to help water recede faster and support residents.

Wahab added that the state will keep investing in drainage construction, channelisation and desilting, but residents must play their part too.

He warned against dumping waste in drains, canals and waterways, and against building on drainage paths or reclaiming wetlands illegally, saying these actions block water flow and worsen flooding.

He also pointed to the rise in extreme rainfall in coastal cities as a sign of climate change.

“Lagos is not immune to these global trends. But we remain committed to a flood-resilient city through infrastructure, enforcement and working with residents,” he said.

Wahab described flood control as a collective duty. He urged residents to keep drains clear, report obstructions, avoid flooded roads while driving, and follow safety advisories, especially in vulnerable communities.

The government restated its commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive measures, and called for more public cooperation to build a cleaner, safer Lagos.