The Lagos State Government has commenced the construction of natural water flow channels along major road corridors in flood-prone areas of Lagos Island.
The initiative was unveiled during the groundbreaking of an ultra-modern shopping complex at the site of the former Pelewura iron rod market in Adeniji Adele.
According to the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the project is a joint effort with the Lagos Island Local Council Development Area and is scheduled for completion within 12 months.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, said the regeneration of the Pelewura market axis is central to the government’s master plan for Lagos Island.
“Although Lagos Island is not technically below sea level, its proximity to the waterline makes effective drainage management critical.
“We are now creating natural water flow channels, which requires removing structures that obstruct drainage,” he explained.
Olumide added that the state’s goal is to restore efficient drainage and return Lagos Island to a time when water flowed freely through its channels.
“Growing up, we could play with paper boats in the drains because water flowed freely. That is the vision we are working to restore,” he said.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, Olajide Abiodun, described the new shopping complex as a landmark project that would rejuvenate the Island.
Also speaking, the chairman of the Lagos Island LCDA, Folawiyo Alade, assured residents that the project would be delivered on schedule, reiterating the government’s commitment to sustainable development.