Lagos State Government has defended its ongoing flood control and environmental management efforts, insisting that sustained interventions on drainage systems, wetlands and floodplains have considerably reduced the impact of heavy rainfall across the state despite the growing effects of climate change.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the remarks on Saturday while inspecting drainage infrastructure and flood-prone locations in Oniru, Chevron Drive, Agungi-Ajiran, Freedom Road and Orange Island.
Responding to criticisms that trailed recent flash floods in parts of Lagos, Wahab faulted attempts by some individuals to politicise the situation, describing such reactions as unfair to officials working tirelessly to manage the city’s environmental challenges.
According to him, the government had consistently implemented long-term measures over the past three years to tackle flooding and improve environmental sustainability across the state.
“Yes, some people are politicising the issue, but that is their choice this season. They are not giving enough credit to the team for the level of work being carried out day and night.
“Three years ago, after studying the reports before us, we began implementing solutions systematically, from improving waste management to banning styrofoam and certain plastic materials, clearing contraventions on floodplains, reclaiming wetlands and expanding drainage infrastructure,” Wahab said.
He added that some of the strategies already being implemented in Lagos are only now being considered by other African cities grappling with flooding challenges.
“If you listened to the President of Ghana’s speech after the recent flooding in Accra, many of the measures they intend
