Flooding has become an unfortunate perennial event in many parts of Nigeria, causing significant disruption to daily life, damaging property, and sometimes leading to loss of life.
The recent flooding in Lagos and the constant inundation of Trademore Estate in Abuja have reopened the concerns of flooding in Nigeria.
These events underscore the urgent need for improved drainage systems, proactive government measures, and increased public awareness and action.
Lagos recently experienced severe flooding that paralysed activities in many parts of the city. Heavy rains overwhelmed the existing drainage systems, leading to submerged roads, stranded vehicles, and affected homes.
This situation is not new to Lagosians, who have become accustomed to navigating flooded streets during the rainy season. However, the intensity and frequency of these floods are escalating and it is raising concerns about the city’s resilience to climate change and urban planning challenges.
Trademore Estate in Abuja has become synonymous with flooding. The estate has been experiencing recurrent flooding since 2014. This has been exacerbated by poor urban planning, waste disposal, and inadequate drainage infrastructure.
Despite repeated occurrences, comprehensive measures to mitigate the flooding in this area have been insufficient. The residents face yearly anxieties with the onset of the rainy season, wondering how severe the next flood will be.
The drainage systems in both Lagos and some areas in Abuja have shown significant inadequacies. In Lagos, many drainage channels are blocked by refuse, illegal constructions, and silt. This prevents the efficient flow of water, leading to backflow and flooding during heavy rains. In Abuja, particularly in areas like Trademore Estate in Lugbe, the drainage systems are either poorly designed or non-existent, failing to accommodate the volume of water from heavy rains and upstream sources.
Recognising the severity of the problem, both federal and state governments have initiated several measures to address flooding. In Lagos, the state government has embarked on dredging and clearing of major drainages and canals. Efforts are also being made to enforce urban planning regulations to prevent construction on floodplains and drainage paths.
In Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has announced plans to improve drainage infrastructure and relocate residents from high-risk flood areas like Trademore Estate. These measures, while commendable, will require consistent implementation and monitoring to be effective.
Citizens also have a crucial role to play in mitigating flooding. Public awareness campaigns should emphasize the importance of proper waste disposal to prevent blockage of drainage channels. Additionally, residents should refrain from building structures on floodplains and obstructing natural watercourses. Community participation in maintaining and monitoring local drainage systems can significantly reduce the risk of flooding.
Given the inevitability of heavy rains and the potential release of water from dams in neighbouring countries, preparation is key.
Perennial flooding in Nigeria, as evidenced by recent events in Lagos and Abuja, is a complex challenge that requires a complex approach. While the government must continue to improve infrastructure and enforce regulations, citizens must also play their part in maintaining drainage systems and preparing for floods.