The Lagos State Government has announced the removal of 1,141 contraventions obstructing drainage Right of Ways across the state in the past year, as part of efforts to ensure a flood-free Lagos.
EpeInsights reports that the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, stated this during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.
He explained that the cleared areas included key drainage channels such as those at Alaba International Market, Aiyetoro/Iteku/Ishasi in Ojo Local Government Area, and Odo Iraye in Epe.
According to Wahab, from 2023 to date, 12 primary drainage channels with a combined length of 32.5 kilometres have been fully restored, while 84 secondary channels covering 96 kilometres were rehabilitated in 2024.
An additional four primary channels are scheduled for restoration in 2025.
To address challenges posed by tidal effects, Wahab noted the construction of a modern pumping station at Ilubirin on Lagos Island.
The facility, described as the first of its kind in Africa, is part of the Lagos Island Drainage Regeneration Project and is designed to pump stormwater into the lagoon through an elevated channel.
The project is expected to benefit several areas on Lagos Island, including Oroyinyin, Idumagbo, Binuyo, Aroloya, Epe, and Ojo-Giwa.
During the reporting period, the ministry issued 1,674 abatement notices and conducted 4,955 environmental monitoring visits.
A total of 171 premises were sealed for failing to address environmental infractions. These included obstruction of stormwater flow due to construction materials, poor sanitation practices, and indiscriminate waste disposal.
The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) received 872 complaints, with 610 of those related to noise pollution. Of these, 129 cases were resolved, 320 were addressed with follow-up from complainants, while 26 cases remain under investigation.
The agency also monitored 140 facilities, including supermarkets and entertainment venues, for compliance with state environmental laws.
Additionally, the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LASWAMO) inspected 2,315 facilities during the same period. It served 1,005 abatement notices and found 1,091 facilities to be compliant.
Enforcement actions were carried out at 208 locations. LASWAMO also deployed three Modular Septage Pre-Treatment Plants to improve the treatment of wastewater before its discharge into the Odo Iya Alaro water body.
Mr. Wahab emphasized the state government’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability and enforcement, stating that advocacy efforts will continue, but strict action will be taken against those who disregard environmental laws.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, called on residents to support government efforts in building a cleaner and safer Lagos.
He reaffirmed that environmental protection remains a shared responsibility between the government and the people.
The press briefing was attended by key officials including Permanent Secretaries Dr. Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, Engr. Mahamood Adegbite, Mr. Olumide Sogunle, and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile.
