By Mohammed Adekola
The Office of Drainage Services, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, presents the proposed Drainage Master Plan at a stakeholders’ parley held in the Council Secretariat in Igando Oloja, Ibeju-Lekki
Stakeholders from both Ibeju-Lekki Local Government and Lekki Local Council Development Area gathered to discuss the crucial plan aimed at combating flooding in the area.
Among the prominent figures were the Secretary to the Local Government, Ibeju-Lekki, Mr. Adewale Adebanjo, and other Executive Members. Traditional rulers, including HRM Oba Toheeb Abidemi Yissa Oyedele, the Onimedu of Orimedu Land, and HRM Oba Arowolo Olayemi Lukman Adebambo, the Gbadewolu of Araromi Kingdom, added their royal presence. Political leaders, party representatives, market associations, and various community stakeholders also participated in the conversation.
Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Government has approved the design and construction of 52 secondary collectors and 11 mobile pumps for the two council areas. This initiative aims to facilitate the smooth flow of stormwater and prevent flooding, addressing a long-standing concern.
Engr. Ibilola, the Director and Head of Planning and Designs, led the team of consultants from the Ministry. He emphasized the critical role of drainages in both urban and rural planning, congratulating the citizens of Ibeju-Lekki and Lekki LCDA for being prioritized in the state’s drainage development agenda. Engr. Ibilola introduced other officials of the Ministry designated to address the various needs of the people.
The Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, acknowledged the absence of drains as a major factor contributing to recent flooding in the area. He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu and the Water Resources Ministry for their timely intervention in approving a drainage master plan for the area.
“As we navigate the challenges posed by flooding in Ibeju-Lekki, I want to express my gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu and the Water Resources Ministry for their swift response in approving a drainage master plan. However, we must be forward-thinking in our approach.
“I appeal for an increase in collector drains to accommodate our growing population and ensure a sustainable solution. Together, with the support of our resilient residents, we will create a more resilient and flood-resistant community,” he said.
Mr. Adeleke Olabanjo, Supervisor for Agriculture and Social Services in Lekki LCDA, represented the Chairman of Lekki at the event. He advised contractors to collaborate with residents with valuable terrain knowledge for effective data capture and information gathering. Additionally, he noted that communities in Lekki LCDA were not included in the listed areas and requested their incorporation.
The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources encouraged residents to channel their needs and complaints directly to the Ministry, fostering a collaborative effort to address flooding concerns in the Ibeju/Lekki Area.
