Lagos govt begins drainage project to curb flooding

Lagos State Government has initiated the construction of natural water flow channels along major road corridors in flood-prone areas of Lagos Island.

The initiative was announced during the groundbreaking of an ultra-modern shopping complex at the site of the former Pelewura iron rod market in Adeniji Adele, Lagos Island.

According to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the project is being executed in collaboration with the Lagos Island Local Council Development Area and is expected to be completed within 12 months.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, explained that the regeneration of the Pelewura market area is central to the state’s master plan for Lagos Island.

“Although Lagos Island is not technically below sea level, its proximity to the waterline makes effective drainage management critical. We are now creating natural water flow channels, which requires removing structures that obstruct drainage,” Olumide said.

He added that the project aims to restore efficient water flow and return Lagos Island to a time when its drainage system was functional. “Growing up, we could play with paper boats in the drains because water flowed freely. That is the vision we are working to restore,” he noted.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, Olajide Abiodun, described the shopping mall project as a landmark that will breathe new life into the Island.

The Chairman of Lagos Island LCDA, Folawiyo Alade, pledged that the project would be delivered within the stipulated timeframe, assuring residents of the government’s commitment to sustainable development.

Lagos govt begins drainage project to curb flooding