Heavy rainfall on September 23 and 24, 2025, caused severe flooding in Lekki, Lagos State, leaving upscale neighborhoods under water. Knee-deep floodwaters submerged luxury cars, blocked major roads, and disrupted businesses, once again raising concerns about Lagos’ vulnerability to seasonal floods.
The flooding came after the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) issued forecasts of intense rainfall. Experts point to Lekki’s low elevation, rapid urbanization, and poorly managed drainage systems as the main reasons for the recurring crisis. Illegal constructions and indiscriminate waste dumping have also worsened the situation, clogging water channels and reducing the city’s ability to cope with heavy downpours.
In response, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment, Tokunbo Wahab, announced the suspension of ongoing land reclamation projects and urged residents in high-risk zones to evacuate. However, critics argue that these measures are short-term fixes, as flooding in Lekki and other parts of Lagos occurs annually with little sustainable infrastructure put in place to address the root causes.
Businesses and residents expressed frustration at the losses suffered, with many calling on the state government to invest in modern drainage systems, coastal defenses, and stricter urban planning regulations. Environmentalists further warned that without urgent action, rising sea levels and climate change will continue to amplify the flooding risks in Lagos.
The Lekki floods highlight the urgent need for comprehensive flood management policies, including effective enforcement against illegal construction, public awareness on waste disposal, and long-term climate adaptation strategies.
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