Lagos Pupils Challenged To Lead Fight Against Flooding
By Sherif Salau
Pupils across Lagos are being challenged to take an active role in combating flooding through proper waste disposal, environmental awareness and practices that prevent the blockage of drainage channels.
Speaking at the 2026 Annual Sensitisation Programme of the Environmental Bees Club held in Ikeja, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services in the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr Tajudeen Gaji, charged the young participants to identify environmental problems around them and develop practical solutions.
He listed improper waste disposal, plastic pollution, blocked drainage channels, flooding, water pollution, loss of green spaces and the impacts of climate change as key issues requiring the active involvement of every resident, including schoolchildren.
“Members of the club should work with their teachers and fellow pupils to raise awareness, lead by example and encourage others to adopt environmentally friendly practices,” Gaji said. He stressed that promoting proper waste disposal, reducing plastic use and keeping surroundings clean would go a long way in preventing drainage blockages that often result in flooding across Lagos.
Guest lecturer Mr Lasisi Adedoyin highlighted the particular vulnerability of children to environmental hazards and linked the state government’s restrictions on single-use plastics to efforts aimed at reducing pollution, keeping drains free and mitigating flood risks.
The programme forms part of ongoing efforts to build environmental consciousness among the younger generation, positioning pupils as agents of change who can influence their homes and neighbourhoods. Officials reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to environmental education as a vital tool for creating a cleaner, healthier and more flood-resilient Lagos.
