Lagos, Nigeria — Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has revealed that more than 3,000 residents were displaced and over 6,000 affected by flooding incidents recorded across Lagos State between January and October 2025.
The governor made the disclosure on Monday during the 2025 World Habitat Day celebration held in Ikeja, themed “Urban Crisis Response: Flooding in Focus.” He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
Sanwo-Olu described flooding as a recurring environmental threat to Lagos, noting that as an “aquatic state,” the city faces unique challenges in managing rising water levels and extreme weather events.
“As an aquatic state, flooding is a major challenge confronting Lagos. It is an environmental menace capable of widespread destruction,” the governor said.
He further disclosed that over 57,000 residents were impacted by flood-related incidents this year, with homes destroyed and livelihoods severely disrupted.
Ongoing Interventions
Governor Sanwo-Olu outlined several measures his administration is implementing under the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda, including sustainable land-use planning, resilient infrastructure development, affordable housing, and the creation of green spaces to mitigate future risks.
He also emphasized the need to strengthen early warning systems, upgrade urban drainage, and enhance collaboration with federal agencies, humanitarian organizations, and local communities to improve flood response and recovery.
Sanwo-Olu called on private sector partners and investors to contribute to flood-resilient initiatives, citing the Dangote Group as an example of corporate participation in sustainable development efforts.
“Investing in flood-resilient housing, smart drainage systems, renewable energy, and urban-risk insurance will safeguard communities while creating new avenues for growth,” he said.
Experts Call for Climate-Integrated Urban Planning
Other speakers at the event, including the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, and the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, Olajide Babatunde, urged stricter environmental regulation, climate-conscious planning, and broader stakeholder collaboration to make Lagos more resilient to flooding and climate shocks.
The event featured exhibitions, expert lectures, and youth debates showcasing innovative approaches to housing, flood management, and environmental sustainability.
Recent Flooding and Federal Warning
In September, a heavy downpour left motorists stranded along the Ikorodu Road, submerging sections between Anthony and the Odo-Iyalaro Bridge, and causing major traffic gridlock. Some drivers were forced to park their vehicles and wait for the water to subside.
Meanwhile, the Federal Ministry of Environment has issued a fresh warning that several parts of the country including Lagos may experience heavy rainfall and flooding between October 4 and 8, 2025.
The ministry identified 39 high-risk locations across 16 states, including Delta, Yobe, Zamfara, Katsina, Oyo, Kebbi, Kano, Niger, Kwara, Benue, Borno, Bayelsa, Cross River, Rivers, and Enugu, urging residents in vulnerable areas to stay alert and take precautionary measures.
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