Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged greater collaboration among stakeholders to create communities that can withstand flooding and safeguard lives and livelihoods across the state.
The governor made this appeal on Monday during the 2025 World Habitat Day celebration held at the Blue Roof, Lagos Television, Agidingbi, Ikeja. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
Speaking on the theme of the 2025 celebration, “Urban Crisis Response: Flooding in Focus,” Sanwo-Olu described it as timely, noting that it highlights the realities faced by Lagos as a coastal megacity increasingly exposed to the impacts of climate change. He explained that flooding has become a persistent urban issue that demands strategic planning, sustainable investment, and active community engagement.
The governor emphasized that improving urban resilience is a core priority of the state’s T.H.E.M.E.S.+ development agenda. Through the Lagos State Resilience Office (LASRO), various policies and initiatives are being implemented to address and mitigate flood risks.
Sanwo-Olu encouraged private investors, development partners, and innovators to collaborate with the government in critical areas such as climate adaptation, mangrove restoration, and flood control. He cited the Dangote Group as an example of a valuable partner in these efforts.
“Investing in flood-resilient housing, smart drainage infrastructure, renewable energy, and urban-risk insurance will not only safeguard communities but also unlock new avenues for economic growth,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s dedication to sustainable development, Sanwo-Olu pledged to make Lagos both livable and resilient for generations to come.
In his address, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, noted that World Habitat Day offers governments and citizens an opportunity to assess the state of human settlements and strengthen their commitment to sustainable urban planning. He stressed that flooding in Lagos is a recurring challenge that requires proactive governance, strict enforcement of planning regulations, and the integration of climate adaptation strategies into urban development plans.
Olumide explained that physical planning goes beyond the issuance of building permits, encompassing community resilience, sustainable construction practices, and inclusive development. He commended the governor for prioritizing infrastructure renewal, flood control initiatives, and affordable housing projects across the state.
The Permanent Secretary of the Office of Physical Planning, Mr. Oluwole Sotire, appreciated stakeholders, youth groups, and development partners for their contributions, assuring them that the state government will continue to strengthen collaboration to achieve a sustainable and flood-resilient Lagos.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde; Chairman of the Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON), Mr. Hakeem Badejo; and Chairman of the Lagos Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Mr. Dele Akindele. The Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Mr. Mahmood Adegbite, also addressed participants.
The event featured expert presentations, exhibitions, and youth debates showcasing innovative approaches to housing, flood management, and environmental sustainability.