Lagos, Nigeria – Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has issued a firm warning to residents of Banana Island, urging them to adhere strictly to the state’s building and environmental regulations, as part of ongoing efforts to address persistent flooding in the affluent neighborhood. His remarks came after an inauguration of community development projects on Saturday, which was marked by growing concerns over the region’s drainage challenges.
Governor Sanwo-Olu was on hand at the event organized by the Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association (BIPORAL), where several major projects were unveiled. The initiatives, aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents, included a newly built administrative office, a fire truck, a recreational park, a clubhouse, a five-a-side football pitch, and a tennis court. The governor lauded the association for its contributions toward improving the neighborhood’s infrastructure.
However, the event was marred by ongoing concerns about flooding in the area, which has become increasingly problematic, especially during the rainy season. Residents raised alarms over the state of drainage systems, particularly the road leading into the estate. They expressed frustration at the worsening waterlogging during heavy rainfall, urging the governor to intervene urgently.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, acknowledging the residents’ concerns, pointed to illegal construction activities as a key factor exacerbating the flooding. He revealed that several buildings had been constructed directly on water channels that were originally designed to carry rainwater away from the island and into the sea. “Somebody has built a house on a channel of water that is supposed to be flowing to the sea,” the governor said. He added that the government would not hesitate to demolish such structures once a thorough inspection of the area had been conducted.
The governor’s remarks signal a tough stance on illegal developments and a renewed effort to safeguard the environment. He called for a cultural shift among residents, stressing the need for better maintenance of community facilities and compliance with building regulations to ensure long-term sustainability.
In response to the immediate flooding concerns, Governor Sanwo-Olu directed the Ministry of Environment and the Office of Drainage and Waterfront Infrastructure to carry out a detailed assessment of the drainage system around the estate, especially on the main road. He outlined plans for long-term solutions, which include improving the capacity of water outfalls and upgrading canal networks to better manage rainfall runoff. “I know that the challenge on that road is a major outfall. It needs to be able to discharge that water onto the canal out on the right and see how we can also navigate some canal and get it on the left,” he said.
The governor’s visit to Banana Island marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to combat urban flooding across Lagos, as well as to preserve the integrity of its high-end neighborhoods. By addressing both immediate concerns and long-term infrastructural needs, Governor Sanwo-Olu aims to restore order and ensure that the island remains a livable and sustainable community for generations to come.
