Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has revealed that over 3,000 residents have been displaced and more than 6,000 affected by flooding across the state between January and October 2025.
Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, made this known on Monday during the 2025 World Habitat Day celebration in Ikeja, themed “Urban Crisis Response: Flooding in Focus.”
“As an aquatic state, flooding is a major challenge confronting Lagos. It is an environmental menace capable of widespread destruction,” he stated.
The governor further disclosed that over 57,000 residents have been impacted this year, with several homes destroyed and livelihoods disrupted.
He outlined ongoing interventions under the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda, including sustainable land-use planning, resilient infrastructure, affordable housing, and the creation of more green spaces.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the need to strengthen early warning systems, upgrade urban drainage, and deepen collaboration with federal agencies, humanitarian organizations, and local communities to combat future disasters.
He also called on private sector partners and investors to support flood-resilient projects such as smart drainage systems, renewable energy, and mangrove restoration—citing the Dangote Group as an example.
“Investing in flood-resilient housing, smart drainage systems, renewable energy, and urban-risk insurance will safeguard communities while creating new avenues for growth,” Sanwo-Olu said.
Other speakers, including the Commissioner for Physical Planning, Oluyinka Olumide, and the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, stressed the need for stricter regulation, climate-integrated urban planning, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to build a flood-resilient Lagos.
The event featured exhibitions, expert lectures, and youth debates showcasing innovative solutions for housing, flood management, and environmental sustainability.
It will be recalled that in September, heavy rainfall left motorists stranded along Ikorodu Road, causing major gridlock from Anthony to the Odo-Iyalaro Bridge, with several sections submerged. Some drivers were forced to park and wait for the water to recede.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Environment has warned that heavy rainfall and flooding may affect parts of the country between October 4 and 8, 2025.
According to the ministry, 39 high-risk locations across 16 states—including Delta, Yobe, Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Oyo, Kebbi, Kano, Niger, Kwara, Benue, Borno, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, and Enugu—have been identified.
Residents in these areas have been advised to stay alert and take precautionary measures to protect their lives and property.
