Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to build flood-resilient communities and safeguard lives and livelihoods across the state.
Sanwo-Olu made the call on Monday at the 2025 World Habitat Day celebration held at the Blue Roof, Lagos Television, Agidingbi, Ikeja. He was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin.
The governor said the theme of the 2025 event, “Urban Crisis Response: Flooding in Focus,” was timely, reflecting the realities of Lagos as a coastal megacity vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
He noted that flooding had become a major urban challenge requiring long-term planning, sustainable investment, and active community participation.
Sanwo-Olu explained that urban resilience remains a key component of his administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda, with the Lagos State Resilience Office (LASRO) coordinating relevant policies and projects to reduce flood risks.
He urged private investors, development partners, and innovators to collaborate with the government in areas such as climate adaptation, mangrove restoration, and flood control, citing the Dangote Group as an example of a valuable partner.
“Investing in flood-resilient housing, smart drainage systems, renewable energy, and urban-risk insurance will help protect communities and create new opportunities for growth,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making Lagos a livable and sustainable city for future generations.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, said World Habitat Day offered an opportunity for governments and citizens to reflect on human settlements and renew their commitment to sustainable urban planning.
Olumide noted that flooding in Lagos was a recurring experience that required proactive governance, strict enforcement of planning regulations, and the integration of climate adaptation strategies into urban development.
He stressed that physical planning went beyond building permits, encompassing community resilience, sustainable construction, and inclusive growth.
Olumide commended Sanwo-Olu for prioritizing infrastructure renewal, flood control, and affordable housing across the state.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Mr. Oluwole Sotire, thanked partners, youth participants, and stakeholders for their contributions and assured that the government would continue to strengthen collaboration to build a sustainable and flood-resilient Lagos.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Special Adviser on e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde; Chairman, Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON), Mr. Hakeem Badejo; and Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (Lagos Chapter), Mr. Dele Akindele.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Mr. Mahmood Adegbite, also addressed participants.
The celebration featured expert lectures, exhibitions, and youth debates showcasing innovative ideas in housing, flood management, and environmental sustainability.
