As relentless rainfall continues to drench Lagos, state authorities are urging residents to remain calm and vigilant, warning that more downpours and potential flash flooding could be on the way.
In a statement shared on social media Monday, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said that the city had been hit by “intense rainfall over the past 12 hours,” and cited new forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) predicting additional storms in the days ahead.
“I urge all residents to remain calm,” Wahab said, noting that the government is acting on the latest NiMET advisories.
“More rain is coming, but we are monitoring the situation closely.”
Despite the city’s network of drainage systems and flood-control measures, Wahab acknowledged that Lagos’s low-lying, coastal geography makes it susceptible to water surges—especially during heavy rainfall events compounded by climate change.
“We’re dealing with a combination of tidal lock-up and high rainfall volume. In such situations, our systems may temporarily be overwhelmed,” he explained.
Areas near rivers, lagoons, and other water bodies are currently being monitored as high-risk zones.
Wahab emphasized the need for caution, warning of strong currents and sudden flash floods in these areas.
The commissioner issued a safety advisory targeting parents, motorists, and pedestrians, urging everyone to avoid risky behaviors during the rainy period.
“Children must remain indoors. Playing in floodwater is dangerous. It’s not just water—it can carry debris, electrical currents, and disease,” he cautioned.
“Motorists should never attempt to drive through flooded roads. Lives and property are at stake.”
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One major challenge in managing floodwater remains the issue of blocked drainage channels—often clogged by improperly disposed waste.
Wahab didn’t mince words on this, calling out the persistent problem of dumping refuse into storm drains during rainfall.
“Let me be clear—dumping waste into drains worsens flooding. It’s illegal, it’s dangerous, and it will not be tolerated. Our enforcement teams are on alert,” he said.
In response to the worsening conditions, Wahab said drainage teams are working round the clock. Concrete-lined drainage channels are under construction across the city to improve long-term flood resilience.
Still, he emphasized that managing an environmental threat of this scale requires a collective effort.
“The government is doing its part. Residents must do theirs. Together, we can protect lives and livelihoods,” Wahab concluded.