The Lagos State Government has issued a fresh warning to residents living in flood-prone communities to urgently relocate to safer, elevated areas as the city continues to battle heavy and persistent rainfall.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this known during an appearance on Politics Today, a programme on Channels Television.
He stressed that residents in vulnerable areas such as Ajegunle (Ajilete axis), Majidun in Ikorodu, and parts of Lekki are at serious risk of flooding and must vacate immediately to avoid life-threatening emergencies.
“This is not a drill. People in low-lying areas need to move. It’s a matter of safety,” Wahab said. He also warned residents of Isheri (OPIC axis) to remain on high alert.
While clarifying that places like Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja are currently considered safe, Wahab reiterated that Lagos remains exposed due to its coastal geography and the increasing impact of climate change.
Referencing new projections by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Wahab noted that Lagos is expected to receive more rainfall in 2025 than it did last year, increasing the likelihood of widespread flooding.
His warning follows a wave of severe flooding on Monday after a downpour that lasted from Sunday night into the following evening.
Many streets, homes, and vehicles were submerged, and drainage systems across the city were overwhelmed, severely disrupting movement and commercial activities.
In response, Wahab assured Lagosians that the government is ramping up efforts to desilt clogged drainage systems and expand water channels. However, he urged citizens to play their part by refraining from indiscriminate waste disposal and obeying emergency directives.
“Flash floods will happen,” Wahab said. “Our job is to build resilient infrastructure and reduce the impact—but when nature strikes, we must act responsibly and with urgency.”