Environment and development in coastal regions and in small islands

Lagos to demolish buildings on drainage paths

As part efforts to end flooding in Lagos State, the government will soon begun to demolish buildings blocking drainage.

Already, N2.93 billion, said the Environment Commissioner, Mr. Kayode Anibaba has been set aside for the exercise.

Anibaba who spoke extemporaneously at a forum on "Drainage and Flooding Problems in Lagos: A Case Study of Victoria and Ikoyi Islands" in Lagos yesterday explained that the decision was taken to avert environmental calamity in the state.

The commissioner stressed that every local council and its residents have roles to play in the clearing of drainage.

One of such roles, he emphasised, is regular payment of taxes by residents to enable the Works ministry make the state "flood free."

Anibaba said: "When you go to church, you have to contribute money for the ministry to flourish."

Nigerian Institute of Oceanography and Marine Research (NIOMR) Director, Dr. T.O. Ajayi who described rainy season as traumatic period for residents of the state, said the institute is concerned with floods in the state.

"A scientific study by NIOMR to solve all this problems has been embarked upon, especially with regards to the Bar Beach in Victoria Island, Ikoyi and other areas in Nigeria," he disclosed.

Works commissioner, Alhaji Rauf Aregbesola described flooding in the state as worrisome.

He disclosed that efforts are being made to make Lagos conducive and urged the press to encourage the people to take care of the environment.

The forum, organised by UNESCO and NIOMR, was attended by many people including journalists.

Chugozie Ndulaka and Bosede Ojo, The Guardian - 8 June 2000