The Lagos State Government has announced a major achievement in its bid to create a flood-free city. Over the past year, the government removed 1,141 illegal structures to restore the Drainage Right-of-Ways (RoW) across the state. This move is part of ongoing efforts to improve the city’s drainage systems and reduce flooding.
Tokunbo Wahab, the state’s Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, made this revelation during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing at Alausa, Ikeja, as part of the Governor’s second anniversary celebrations. Wahab emphasized that the restoration work was critical to managing flood risks and improving infrastructure in various parts of the state. Notable restoration projects include major drainage systems like System 40 & 40a at Alaba International Market Channel, Franklas Channel, and the Aiyetoro/Iteku/Ishasi Drainage Channel in Ojo LGA.
In total, 12 primary drainage channels covering 32.5 kilometers have been restored from 2023 to 2024. The restoration of 84 secondary channels, totaling 96 kilometers, has also been completed. Plans are already underway to restore four additional primary channels in 2025.
Another significant project highlighted by Wahab is the construction of Africa’s first state-of-the-art pumping station at Ilubirin, Lagos Island. This facility will pump stormwater from Lagos Island into the lagoon, forming a critical part of the ongoing Lagos Island Drainage Regeneration Project aimed at reducing flooding in the area.
Wahab also discussed the government’s environmental monitoring activities. In 2024, 1,674 abatement notices were issued, and over 4,900 monitoring visits were made. These efforts led to the sealing of 171 premises for non-compliance with environmental laws. Common violations included improper waste disposal, illegal use of public roads for building materials, and inadequate sanitation facilities.
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) has also intensified enforcement against noise pollution and non-compliant facilities. Over 600 complaints related to noise pollution were addressed, with 26 cases still under investigation. LASEPA also monitored 140 businesses, including supermarkets and nightclubs, to ensure compliance with safety and cleanliness regulations.
In the area of wastewater management, the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LASWAMO) took strong action against illegal waste discharge. The office conducted 2,315 facility inspections and ensured compliance from over 1,000 facilities. Additionally, three Modular Septage Pre-Treatment Plants were deployed to treat fecal sludge before it is discharged into water bodies.
Wahab assured that enforcement actions would continue, along with advocacy campaigns to encourage better environmental practices. Special Adviser to the Governor on the Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, called on residents to support the government’s vision of making Lagos a safe, clean, and sustainable city.
The briefing was attended by several dignitaries, including Permanent Secretaries and heads of relevant agencies, as well as media representatives.
