The Lagos State Government has directed residents of flood-prone communities to temporarily relocate to higher ground following a fresh seven-day flood alert issued by the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency (NiHSA).
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, on Monday September 21, said the alert covered Lagos and 14 other states, with rising river levels posing a risk to vulnerable communities. He urged residents not to wait for floodwaters to rise before taking precautionary action, stressing that protecting lives should take priority over property.
Wahab identified areas requiring heightened vigilance to include parts of Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Oke-Ira Nla in Ajah, Kirikiri, Ilaje Waterfront Jetty and Jetty Terminal B. Communities along the Ogun River and other waterways, including Isheri North, Kara, Itowolo, Ajegunle, Majidun, Ogolonto and parts of Agboyi, were also advised to remain on high alert from Sept. 19 to Sept. 25.
The commissioner said the state was intensifying monitoring of riverine, low-lying, coastal and waterfront communities while maintaining drainage infrastructure across Lagos. He advised residents to avoid dumping refuse in drains and waterways and warned against walking or driving through flooded roads, bridges and fast-moving water.
Wahab urged local governments, emergency agencies, community leaders and residents to activate early-warning and response measures and prepare for possible temporary relocation. He assured residents that the government would continue monitoring rainfall, river levels and other hydrological developments and provide updates as necessary.
Leave a comment