Drainage excavation has commenced in Shapati as Ibeju-Lekki Local Government continues implementing its emergency flood response plan across affected communities.
Epe Insights reports that the latest intervention follows the flood response strategy announced by the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. (Engr.) Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, to address flooding and improve drainage infrastructure in vulnerable communities.
The ongoing excavation work stretches from Shapati Junction to the Igbijia Shapati Primary Canal. The project is designed to improve the discharge of stormwater and reduce flooding within the community.
Council officials explained that the intervention is an immediate response to the flooding experienced by residents during the rainy season. The excavation is expected to restore the free flow of water through existing drainage channels while reducing pressure on surrounding roads and neighbourhoods.
According to the local government, the drainage excavation also serves as a preparatory phase for the permanent drainage project earlier announced by Hon. Olowa. The long-term project is expected to provide a more sustainable solution to recurring flooding in the area.
The Council noted that combining emergency interventions with permanent infrastructure development will help improve environmental resilience and reduce future flood risks across Ibeju-Lekki.
The commencement of work in Shapati demonstrates the administration’s commitment to translating policy announcements into visible action. Less than days after unveiling the emergency flood response plan, the Council has continued to mobilise equipment and technical personnel to affected communities.
Hon. Olowa has consistently maintained that prompt action remains essential in addressing the environmental challenges confronting flood-prone areas. The Chairman has therefore directed that interventions continue until immediate relief is achieved.
Technical teams are actively supervising the excavation to ensure the project progresses according to plan. Continuous monitoring is expected to guide further deployment of equipment and manpower where additional support becomes necessary.
Residents of Shapati have welcomed the ongoing work, expressing optimism that improved drainage will reduce flooding and make movement easier during periods of heavy rainfall.
Flooding has remained one of the major environmental concerns affecting several communities within Ibeju-Lekki, particularly as rapid urban growth increases pressure on existing drainage systems.
The Council believes that improving drainage channels through excavation and maintenance remains one of the most effective measures for reducing flood-related disruptions and protecting public infrastructure.
Officials also reiterated that emergency operations will continue in phases across other affected communities identified under the Council’s coordinated flood response programme.
The phased implementation allows resources to be allocated efficiently while ensuring every priority location receives the necessary attention. Similar drainage excavation and flood control measures are expected to commence in additional communities as operations expand.
Beyond emergency interventions, the local government continues to pursue long-term partnerships with the Lagos State Government and relevant Federal Government agencies to strengthen drainage infrastructure throughout Ibeju-Lekki.
The administration believes that collaborative investment in drainage facilities will improve flood resilience and support sustainable development across the fast-growing local government area.
Residents have also been encouraged to complement government efforts by maintaining proper environmental sanitation and avoiding the disposal of refuse into drainage channels.
Environmental experts have repeatedly stressed that clean and functional drainage systems remain critical to effective flood management, particularly during the peak of the rainy season.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, property and critical infrastructure through proactive environmental management and timely emergency interventions.
As excavation works continue in Shapati, residents remain hopeful that the ongoing project will provide immediate relief while laying the foundation for the permanent drainage infrastructure planned for the community. The intervention further reflects the Council’s determination to deliver practical and lasting solutions to flooding across Ibeju-Lekki.
