Government Takes Action to Prevent Flooding in Lekki: Removal of Shanties and Ongoing Drainage Channel Projects

The Lagos State Government has recently taken several steps to improve the drainage system, including the removal of shanties along the coastal road and the ongoing construction of drainage channels.

The efforts are aimed at ensuring a flood-free Lagos and protecting the lives and properties of its citizens.

During a recent inspection tour, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, explained that the removal of shanties on the coastal road, along Mayegun and Jakande, was done for the over-riding public interest.

The government has also intensified dredging and cleaning of major drainage channels and canals across the state.

One of the major projects underway is the redesigning and reconstruction of system 44 drainage channel after the removal of structures on the setback.

This project will prevent flooding in the Lekki axis when the rains commence.

The government has also awarded a contract for the concrete lining of the canal, which will further improve the drainage system in the area.

During the tour, the commissioner also visited Ilabere Drainage Channel, off McPherson Road, Ikoyi, where he directed immediate cleaning of the channels and serving of abatement notices to contractors who were in the habit of illegally placing their construction materials on the road.

He warned residents to desist from such practices and to take ownership of public infrastructure provided by the government.

The team also inspected ongoing enforcement actions for the re-establishment of drainage setbacks in Pele Wura/ Ladylak Collector drain, Kofo Abayomi, and Aerodrome Collector drain in Apapa.

Properties that fall within the approved meters setback of the channels were issued abatement notices before the commencement of enforcement action.

The Lagos State Government is committed to ensuring a flood-free Lagos and protecting its citizens from the dangers of flooding.

The ongoing projects and actions taken to improve the drainage system will help achieve this goal.

However, residents are also urged to play their part by avoiding dumping refuse in drainage channels and by not building on drainage setbacks.