The Lagos State government has assured residents of Lagos Island that proactive measures are in place to tackle flooding in the area, despite ongoing disruptions caused by the urban regeneration project.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, gave the assurance during an inspection tour of the project sites across Lagos Island. He said the initiative, which targets perennial flooding hotspots including Adeniji, Oroyinyin, Idumagbo, Ojo Giwa, Jankara and Aroloya, would bring lasting relief upon completion.

“We can’t make an omelette without breaking the egg shell,” Wahab said, acknowledging the inconvenience residents are experiencing as a result of ongoing works. “The inconvenience is temporary. We are committed to delivering a permanent solution to a longstanding challenge.”

The commissioner disclosed that a temporary pumping station has been set up under the Adeniji Adele Bridge to help redirect stormwater away from affected areas such as Aroloya, Ojo-Giwa, Binuyo and Oroyinyin. This, he said, will allow uninterrupted continuation of construction in surrounding zones.

He also noted that the state government has been actively upgrading infrastructure, including the de-clogging of drainages, and has deployed the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang (EFAG) to work year-round. “Flooding is a seasonal issue, and we are prepared,” he said. “EFAG continues to help de-flood and desilt our major and minor drainages.”

On waste management, Wahab said the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) is intervening in areas where private operators are struggling, especially in markets. He revealed that previously shut markets like Mile 12 and Ketu have been reopened following improvements in compliance.

The commissioner also ordered the demolition of illegal shanties obstructing the drainage channel near King Ado High School on Ojo Giwa and directed the sealing of a building under construction on Idi Oluwo for dumping materials into the drainage.

He reiterated the government’s resolve to enforce environmental laws, including the ban on styrofoam, stating that while violations persist in market areas, significant progress has been made in reducing usage.

Wahab maintained that the state is ready to withstand any impending floods, in line with recent warnings from the Federal Government.