The Lagos State government has issued a critical “move now” advisory to residents in several flood-prone areas, as the city reels from the effects of heavy, persistent rainfall.
The directive, announced by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, comes in the wake of a downpour that began on Sunday night and continued through Monday, leaving many parts of the megacity submerged.
During an interview on a Channels Television programme, Wahab emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that individuals living in low-lying and coastal communities must seek safer accommodation immediately.
“Those around the Ajilete axis, that’s Ajegunle, need to relocate. Residents in the coastline areas of Ikorodu like Majidun, and certain parts of the Lekki corridor, must move,” he cautioned.
The commissioner also identified (OPIC axis) as a high-risk location where residents should be on heightened alert. Conversely, he reassured citizens in Epe, Mushin, and Ikeja, describing these areas as relatively safe from severe flooding.
Wahab explained that the recent weather event is consistent with predictions from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which had forecasted heavier rainfall for 2025.
“For those who stay in the lowlands of Lagos, they have to move to the upland areas until the rains recede,” he stressed, attributing the increased flash flooding to the broader effects of climate change and the state’s natural vulnerability as a coastal city.
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The commissioner highlighted the government’s proactive efforts to mitigate the flood impact, including clearing drainage channels and expanding flood pathways.
He also stated that the state government spent over ₦15 billion on drainage infrastructure in 2024.
While acknowledging these infrastructural interventions, he underscored the importance of community cooperation, urging residents to be responsible and adhere to safety guidance.
Viral videos and images captured the widespread disruption caused by the flooding, showing streets, homes, and vehicles submerged in water.
The situation has led to significant commercial disruption in Lagos, Nigeria’s economic hub.
Wahab’s advisory serves as a strong reminder for Lagosians to take personal responsibility for their safety in the face of what is expected to be a more intense rainy season, even as the government continues its work to provide resilient infrastructure.