BAD HABITS, ILLEGAL RECLAMATION CAUSING LAGOS FLOODING — COMMISSIONER

The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mrs. Bolaji Adefuye, has attributed the recurring flooding in the state to bad environmental habits and illegal land reclamation activities.

Speaking during an inspection of flood-prone areas, the commissioner stressed that indiscriminate waste disposal, blockage of drainage channels, and unauthorised reclamation of wetlands were major contributors to the problem. “Flooding is not just an act of nature; it is largely man-made. We must change our habits,” she said.

The state government has warned against further illegal reclamation and vowed to enforce environmental laws more rigorously. Residents have been urged to desist from dumping refuse in canals and to support ongoing drainage maintenance efforts.

The commissioner also announced plans for intensified sensitisation campaigns and stricter penalties for environmental violations.

Lagos has experienced severe flooding in recent years, causing significant damage to property and disrupting daily life.