Tokunbo Wahab Reaffirms Commitment to Tackle Flash Flooding in Lagos

The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has reaffirmed the state’s  commitment to tackling flash flooding and addressing environmental infractions across the state. 

Speaking during an inspection tour of critical drainage projects in Eti-Osa Local Government Area, Wahab emphasised the importance of sustainable, community-driven solutions to combat these challenges.

Accompanied by the Permanent Secretaries of Environmental Services, Gaji Omobolaji, and Drainage Services, Mahamood Adegbite, Wahab assessed ongoing projects aimed at improving Lagos’s flood management systems. 

Among the key sites visited was the Orchid Road/Royal Pine Estate Secondary Collector, a vital drainage project designed to mitigate flooding in vulnerable areas.

One of the tour’s highlights was addressing long-standing issues with Systems 156 and 157, where residential infractions had disrupted natural water flow, significantly increasing flood risks.

Wahab outlined the government’s collaborative approach, noting that after months of negotiations, affected residents agreed to either restore the natural discharge path to the Ikota River or fund alternative designs.

At Ikota GRA (System 44A), Wahab acknowledged residents’ proactive efforts in preparing a Bill of Quantity to address massive infractions. 

He expressed confidence in the collaborative process, which includes revised dimensions of drainage systems to mitigate community impact while addressing environmental needs.

The commissioner also inspected the Ogudu/Maryland and Ogudu/Odo Iyaloro sections of the drainage system, where modifications have been made to strike a balance between environmental protection and community welfare. 

Discussions with contractors responsible for the coastal road were also highlighted, with Wahab stressing the need to ensure proper water discharge outlets into the Atlantic Ocean to prevent waterlogging and alleviate pressure on inland drainage systems.

As part of the state’s proactive flood prevention strategy, Wahab disclosed plans to issue evacuation notices to residents of shanties near Kuramo Waters.

These settlements, he explained, obstruct water channels and contribute to environmental degradation, posing significant risks to lives and infrastructure.