The State Government of the Centre of Excellence (Lagos) has reaffirmed its resolve to tackle flooding across Lagos Island, with the commencement of a major drainage reconstruction project at Adeniji Adele.
The project, which is being executed by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, is aimed at managing stormwater and putting an end to the recurrent flooding experienced in the area.
Speaking on the development, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the entire drainage system around Adeniji Adele is undergoing a complete overhaul due to the failure of the old channels.
“A greater part of the old drainage infrastructure has collapsed and sunk below the tidal height. This is the main reason why that axis has been experiencing persistent flooding, and the state is determined to put a stop to it,” Wahab explained.
Commissioner Wahab stated that the project is being carried out in two phases. The first phase involves the construction of a sump and the installation of a pumping station with the capacity to discharge 3,000 cubic meters of water per hour, while the second phase entails the reconstruction of defective primary drainage channels across the area.
He noted that the reconstruction effort will provide relief to residents and businesses in areas including Ojo Giwa, Binuyo, and Oroyinyin streets, all of which have suffered repeated flood-related disruptions over the years.
“This project is critical to the overall plan to ensure Lagos Island is flood-free and better protected against the effects of climate change,” Wahab added.
The state government urged residents to cooperate with construction teams and promised that the project would be completed within schedule to deliver lasting benefits to the community.