Flooding: LASEMA begins campaign, assures residents of preparedness

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has reaffirmed its preparedness to respond effectively to any flood-related emergency in the state.

The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said this on Monday when he led LASEMA team and the media to Ikeja Local Government Area on the 2025 Flood-Free Lagos Campaign.

Oke-Osanyintolu said the campaign was in response to early warnings from the Federal Government indicating that Lagos was among the states at high risk of flooding.

“We have mapped out all vulnerable areas including Eti-Osa, Kosofe, Lekki, Apapa, and Amuwo-Odofin.

“We are well prepared for any form of eventuality,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.

He noted that the state had recorded significant improvements in emergency preparedness and infrastructure.

“Under the leadership of the state Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, we have established an efficient and effective response system.

“Our Command and Control Centre now operates as a full-fledged agency, headed by a General Manager.

“The state emergency number remains 112, ensuring swift communication during emergencies,” he said.

He noted that simulation exercises had been carried out with all the key stakeholders involved in emergency response.

Oke-Osanyintolu said the agency had conducted risk analyses to identify and mitigate potential hotspots.

He disclosed that Lagos State had set up three relief camps across the senatorial districts to rehabilitate people in case of severe emergencies, leading to loss of accommodation.

He added that grassroots responders had been trained and empowered to act swiftly during emergencies.

“We aim to build a resilient community. Disaster impact is most significant at the grassroots, and our preparedness reflects that understanding,” he said.

Oke-Osanyintolu also praised the Ministry of the Environment for its proactive efforts in clearing drainage, desilting gutters, and preventing construction that blocks water flow.

“All man-made causes of flooding are being addressed. Environmental laws are being enforced, and structures that obstruct drainage systems are being removed,” he added.

He attributed the state’s improved disaster response outcomes—including reduced mortality and morbidity rates—to the governor’s political will and strategic investments in emergency equipment and technology.

“We thank the governor for his commitment to the safety of lives and property, which remains a core pillar of his administration,” he said.

Oke-Osanyintolu appealed to residents to support the state’s efforts by paying taxes regularly, emphasising that disaster management is a shared responsibility.

In his response, the Vice Chairman of the council, Mr Yomi Mayungbe, said the council would collaborate with LASEMA to ensure a free-flood community.