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Lagos Government Outlines Multi-Level Strategy to Tackle Flooding Amid Political Debate

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Lagos Government Outlines Multi-Level Strategy to Tackle Flooding Amid Political Debate

The Lagos State Government has presented a comprehensive roadmap to address recurring flash floods across the metropolis, dismissing what it described as “simplistic suggestions” from opposition figures and stressing that flood control in the city requires a mix of science, infrastructure, and long-term planning rather than political rhetoric.

Governor’s officials noted that Lagos, home to more than 23 million residents within a landmass of just 3,577 square kilometres and 186 kilometres of Atlantic coastline, faces a unique environmental challenge. Much of the city lies close to sea level, creating natural vulnerabilities similar to those of Venice, Amsterdam, Bangkok, and Jakarta.

According to experts, the recent flooding in Lekki was the result of a “compound event” in which a heavy downpour coincided with high tide. This phenomenon, called tide-locking, occurs when the ocean or lagoon rises so high that storm drains are unable to discharge water efficiently, leading to temporary street flooding.

A Three-Part Strategy

Officials explained that the government’s long-term response is anchored on three principles:

  1. Water detention — temporary storage of rainfall in estate lakes, plots, or basins to ease pressure on trunk drains.
  2. Wider, clearer channels — ensuring water moves efficiently through secondary and primary drains.
  3. Control of backflow — using one-way flap gates and pumps to prevent high tides from forcing water back into the drainage system.

Current Progress (2023–2025)

Ongoing projects include:

  • Maintenance of 579 kilometres of secondary collectors and 309 kilometres of primary channels.
  • Clearing of 444 kilometres of drains by EFAG rapid-response teams.
  • Restoration of 40.3 kilometres of encroached waterways through enforcement.
  • Construction of 218 new channels, expected to add 1,500 kilometres of drainage upon completion.
  • Installation of pumps at low-lying points, with the first facility at Ilubirin on Lagos Island undergoing testing.
  • Early warning measures such as daily forecasts and real-time water-level monitoring.

Short, Medium, and Long-Term Measures

  • Immediate actions (0–6 months): intensified silt and trash clearance at choke points such as Ajiran and Agungi, installation of debris screens, and pilot projects for estate lakes.
  • Medium-term (6–24 months): creation of a Lekki Blue-Green Network linking estate lakes and canals, installation of flap gates and pilot pumps at tide-sensitive outfalls, and stricter enforcement against canal encroachment.
  • Long-term (2–8 years): expansion of pumped drainage cells in the lowest basins, secondary-drain planning, protection of canal corridors, wetland restoration, and new building codes mandating on-site water detention.

Waste Management and Flood Control

The government linked solid waste management directly to flood prevention. Recent bans on Styrofoam and restrictions on single-use plastics, effective from July 2025, are expected to reduce blocked grates and drains. Plans are also underway to expand material recovery facilities and launch a 60–80 MW waste-to-energy plant in Epe to process about 2,500 tonnes of waste daily.

Daily Maintenance

Officials highlighted the role of routine street cleaning, noting that 15,000 sweepers currently maintain roads and inlets, while ongoing removal of illegal encroachments restores canal flow.

“Floods Are Driven by Physics, Not Politics”

Concluding the presentation, government representatives emphasized that climate change is the principal driver of urban flooding worldwide, citing recent flood events in Japan, Florida, and Western Europe. They cautioned against politicizing natural events, insisting that Lagos is pursuing a science-based response that combines engineering, enforcement, and public cooperation.

“The bottom line is clear,” the statement read. “Floods are driven by physics, not politics. Our task is to store, move, and control water so that rainfall, even during high tide, no longer brings disruption to Lagosians.”

 

ÌBÀDÀN – The great kingdom without a Royal Family! – ,Tunde Olaoye

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ÌBÀDÀN – The great kingdom without a Royal Family! – ,Tunde Olaoye

In Ìbàdàn any indigene can become the King as long as you can become the Mogaji of your compound which can qualify you into either the ọtun Olubadan (Civil Line) or Balógun of Ìbàdàn (Military Line) and then become a prospective Olubadan of Ìbàdàn.

Ìbàdàn leadership titles are not hereditary, and there used to be no official residence of the Olubadan until when an official palace was built in the 80’s during the reign of Oba Yesufu Aṣankẹ, Previous traditional rulers ruled from their private homes.

The first man to hold the title Olú Ìbàdàn was Lágelú- Òrò Àpáta-Májà, a prominent Ilé-ifẹ̀ Chief and powerful warrior from Ìlàrẹ́ ward. In his Ìdáfá (Divinity consultation), he got the Odù Ọ̀sẹ́ meji (the corpus of luck) which predicted abundant success for him . Lágelú left Ifẹ with his family and soldiers on an expedition to Igbo-Ipara where he settled and displayed his bravery by defending his new abode against external aggressions. Lágelú made Igbo-Ipara a place of attraction to traders and passers-by who started calling the settlement “Ẹ̀bá-Ọ̀dàn” meaning a place between the forests and the savannah. The name gradually metamorphosed into Ìbàdàn.

Lágelú’s Ìbàdàn once went into extinction because a masquerade was unmasked at one of their festivals and the women and children who had always believed that masquerades are dead ancestors who return to earth once in a year now see that it is usually a man wearing costumes who represent the spirit of the ancestors. Ìbàdàn women started laughing at the event and it traveled to the ears of Aláàfin Agboluaje who rallied some other Yorùbá towns that Ìbàdàn must be destroyed for revealing an age long secret (Ìbàdàn ti b’awo jẹ́). Ìbàdàn was destroyed, but the old Lagelu and a few of his children and soldiers ( about 12 of them) escaped into the Ẹlẹ́yẹlê hills where they reorganized and started to grow in numbers and started running short of food, they could only get Oro fruit ( African Mango), snails and maize to feed on. This earned them the praise poetry of Ìbàdàn ọmọ a j’òro sùn, ọmọ a j’ẹ̀gbín yó, ọmọ a fi ìkarahun f’ọ́kọ mu ( Ìbàdàn who feeds on Oro as supper, who is well fed with snails and uses the shells to to serve pap). Lágelú used his good luck and aura for rallying people together to rebuild Ìbàdàn that it surpassed the former one, he organized the town into clans and appointed chiefs to administer them.

Years later, Ìbàdàn became the most dominant force in entire Yorùbá land after the fall of Ọyọ Empire, producing great warriors and statesmen like Ààrẹ Oluyẹdun, Lakanle, Iba Oluyọle, Baalẹ Orowusi, Baalẹ Olugbode, Baalẹ Opeagbe, Balogun Ibikunle, Baṣọrun, Ogunmọla, Balogun Akere etc. Ògèdèǹgbé Agbógungbórò the great Ìjèṣà warrior was also trained at Ìbàdàn.

On the staff of office of Olúbàdàn, you’ll see motifs of Divinity board with Ose meji, Snail, Shell, Oro fruit (African Mango), Calabash of destiny (Igbá Ìwà) , Lion and a Gong.

As Ọba Rasheed Olawọlu Ladoja is crowned the 44th Olúbàdàn today, I am wishing him the strength, resilience and luck of the founding fathers. Kí Adé pẹ́ lórí, kí bàtà pẹ́ lẹ́sẹ̀. Kábíyèsí o 👑

Túndé Ọláoyè
(Filmmaker/Culture Enthusiast)

Ibadan Agog with Joy as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Is Crowned 44th Olubadan

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Ibadan Agog with Joy as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja Is Crowned 44th Olubadan

Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, was enveloped in jubilation on Thursday as Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, former governor of the state, was formally crowned the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The historic event, held at Mapo Hall, drew a massive crowd of dignitaries, politicians, traditional rulers, and ordinary citizens who turned out in colourful attire to witness the installation of one of Ibadan’s most illustrious sons.

The ceremony, presided over by Governor Seyi Makinde, reached its climax when the governor presented the Staff of Office to Oba Ladoja, officially confirming his ascension to the throne. The event was marked by music, drumming, and cultural displays that reflected Ibadan’s rich heritage.

In his first address as Olubadan, Oba Ladoja called for unity among the people of Ibadan and used the occasion to make a passionate appeal for the creation of Ibadan State. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to make the dream of Ibadan Statehood a reality before the end of his administration in 2027, describing it as a long-overdue recognition of Ibadan’s size, population, and historical significance.

“Ibadan deserves recognition as a state of its own,” the monarch declared. “We have the capacity, the people, and the heritage to stand as a state within Nigeria’s federation. I call on President Tinubu to fulfill this before 2027.”

The governor, in his remarks, congratulated the new Olubadan and praised his long record of service to the people of Oyo State, both as a political leader and as a statesman. Governor Makinde expressed confidence that Oba Ladoja’s reign would usher in peace, development, and a stronger voice for Ibadan within Nigeria’s political and cultural space.

The coronation was attended by several prominent Nigerians, including traditional rulers from across Yorubaland, members of the National Assembly, captains of industry, and representatives of socio-cultural organizations. Security was tight, but the mood remained festive as residents thronged the streets around Mapo Hall, chanting songs of praise and expressing pride in their new monarch.

For many Ibadan indigenes, the installation of Oba Ladoja was not only the continuation of a centuries-old succession tradition but also a symbolic moment of renewal. Market women, artisans, and youths interviewed at the event said they believed his reign would bring prosperity and stability to the ancient city.

Historians also noted the significance of Oba Ladoja’s coronation. Beyond his political career, the new Olubadan is known as a man of culture and a unifier whose leadership style is expected to strengthen the city’s traditional institutions. His ascension marks a new chapter in Ibadan’s history, one that many hope will reinforce its standing as a center of Yoruba civilization.

As celebrations continued late into the evening, with traditional drummers and dancers performing across the city, the people of Ibadan embraced their new monarch with hope and optimism. For them, the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is not just a change of leadership but the dawn of a new era for Ibadanland.

Falana Faults Dangote Refinery Deal on Union Rights, Calls for Automatic Membership for Junior Staff

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Falana Faults Dangote Refinery Deal on Union Rights, Calls for Automatic Membership for Junior Staff

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has criticized the recent agreement between the Federal Government, the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and the management of Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals on the unionisation of refinery staff, describing it as inconsistent with established labour laws.

The tripartite arrangement, which was reached earlier this month, was intended to resolve tensions over whether workers at Africa’s largest refinery should be allowed to join unions of their choice. However, Falana argued on Wednesday that the agreement fell short of Nigeria’s statutory labour provisions, particularly concerning the rights of junior staff.

According to him, under the nation’s labour laws, all junior employees in the oil and gas sector are automatically deemed members of NUPENG, without the need for further negotiation. He added that any arrangement suggesting otherwise would amount to a violation of workers’ fundamental rights to unionise.

“By law, junior workers do not need to seek permission or sign fresh agreements to belong to NUPENG. Their membership is automatic,” Falana said. “The deal reached contradicts the clear provisions of the Trade Union Act and should not stand.”

He further urged the Ministry of Labour and Employment to ensure strict adherence to existing statutes and protect workers from arrangements that could weaken their bargaining power.

Labour analysts note that Falana’s intervention could reignite debates over the balance between protecting workers’ rights and safeguarding private sector investments, especially in large-scale projects such as the $20 billion Dangote Refinery.

Neither Dangote Refinery management nor the Federal Ministry of Labour had issued an official response to Falana’s remarks at press time.

Olubadan Calls on Tinubu to Approve Creation of Ibadan State Before 2027

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Olubadan Calls on Tinubu to Approve Creation of Ibadan State Before 2027

The 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize the creation of Ibadan State, declaring that the long-standing demand of the ancient city should be fulfilled before the end of the current administration in 2027.

Oba Ladoja made the appeal on Thursday while addressing thousands of residents and dignitaries shortly after receiving the Staff of Office from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde. The ceremony marked his formal installation as the 44th Olubadan, a moment the monarch used to spotlight one of the most significant aspirations of his people.

“Ibadan deserves recognition as a state of its own,” the monarch said, stressing that the city’s size, population, and historical importance make it a natural candidate for statehood. “I call on President Tinubu to make this happen before 2027.”

The call for Ibadan State has been a recurring demand for decades, often raised by traditional rulers, political leaders, and civil society groups from the region. Proponents argue that Ibadan, as one of Nigeria’s largest cities and a key center of commerce, culture, and politics, has the capacity to thrive as a standalone state within the federation.

Governor Makinde, who presented the Staff of Office, praised the new Olubadan’s commitment to the welfare of his people and described his reign as an opportunity to deepen unity and development in Ibadanland.

Political observers note that the monarch’s direct appeal to President Tinubu could reignite national debate on state creation, an issue that has remained sensitive since the last restructuring of Nigeria’s 36 states in 1996.

The Federal Government has yet to issue a response to the request.

Ogun State Opens Talks with Chinese Tech Giant Inspur on Digital Innovation Partnership

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Ogun State Opens Talks with Chinese Tech Giant Inspur on Digital Innovation Partnership

The Ogun State Government has commenced strategic discussions with Inspur, one of China’s leading information technology companies, as part of its broader mission to position the state as Africa’s premier digital innovation hub.

The engagement took place during the state’s ongoing investment drive to China, where a high-powered delegation met with executives of Inspur in Shandong Province. Inspur, recognized globally for its expertise in cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence, is regarded as one of the top IT firms driving China’s digital economy.

According to officials, the Ogun team expressed admiration for Inspur’s rapid growth and forward-looking vision, noting that the company’s innovation track record aligns with the aspirations of the Ogun Tech Hub and the state’s digital transformation agenda.

Talks centered on potential areas of collaboration, including knowledge transfer, training opportunities, and job creation for young people in Ogun. Both parties also explored how a partnership could strengthen the foundations of the state’s digital economy, foster homegrown technological solutions, and attract further investment into Nigeria’s ICT sector.

State representatives described the meeting as a milestone in Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration’s efforts to diversify the economy, reduce reliance on traditional industries, and position Ogun as a leading destination for technology-driven development in Africa.

While discussions remain at the exploratory stage, officials say the dialogue with Inspur reinforces Ogun’s resolve to build international partnerships that will support long-term innovation and growth.

 

Lagos State Begins Farmers’ Registration Under Produce for Lagos Programme

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Lagos State Begins Farmers’ Registration Under Produce for Lagos Programme

The Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems has opened registration for farmers across the state under its new Produce for Lagos Programme, an initiative designed to strengthen food security and expand agricultural partnerships.

According to the Ministry, the programme aims not only to boost food production within Lagos but also to establish sustainable collaborations with farmers in key food-producing states across Nigeria. Officials explained that the dual approach will help bridge the supply gap, stabilize food prices, and ensure a steady inflow of essential commodities into the state.

As part of the initiative, registered farmers will be incorporated into a central database. This database will serve as the primary tool for policy planning, the distribution of support services, and targeted interventions, ensuring that resources reach the right beneficiaries.

The Ministry has urged all farmers operating within Lagos to complete their registration promptly through the official portal: http://bit.ly/48dAWiI.

The government reiterated its commitment to empowering local farmers, supporting agribusiness growth, and reducing dependence on external food supplies, with the Produce for Lagos Programme expected to become a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural policy in the coming years.

 

Unity Bank Shares Exchange Hands in Major NGX Cross Deal Amid AMCON Exit Speculations

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Unity Bank Shares Exchange Hands in Major NGX Cross Deal Amid AMCON Exit Speculations

LAGOS, September 25, 2025 — A significant block of Unity Bank Plc shares previously held by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) was traded on Thursday through a cross deal on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), fueling speculation about a broader divestment.

According to market data shared by Proshare via its handle @TheAnalystNG, a total of 46,063,653 shares of Unity Bank exchanged hands at N1.66 per share. The transaction drew attention from investors and analysts, given AMCON’s longstanding position as a major shareholder in the tier-two lender.

The deal quickly triggered reports, including one from Nairametrics, suggesting that more than 4 billion Unity Bank shares—representing AMCON’s entire 34 percent equity stake—had been sold to Providus Bank. The report, however, remains unconfirmed, as neither AMCON, Providus Bank, nor Unity Bank has issued an official statement regarding the transaction.

Unity Bank, which has faced capital adequacy and restructuring challenges in recent years, has been under AMCON’s oversight since the corporation acquired its non-performing assets during the banking reforms. A possible transfer of AMCON’s holdings to a private sector investor such as Providus could signal a turning point for the bank’s governance and recapitalization prospects.

Market observers noted that while the 46 million shares traded on Thursday represent only a fraction of AMCON’s stake, the transaction may be part of a larger phased divestment strategy. The NGX is expected to release more details as regulatory filings are updated in the coming days.

Unity Bank closed Thursday’s trading session at N1.66 per share, unchanged from the cross-deal price.

 

UK to Roll Out Mandatory Digital ID “BritCard” for All Adults

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UK to Roll Out Mandatory Digital ID “BritCard” for All Adults

LONDON — The United Kingdom government has announced plans to introduce a new mandatory digital identification system, known as the BritCard, in a policy move aimed at tightening immigration controls and strengthening national security.

The BritCard, which will serve as a nationwide digital ID, is expected to be rolled out to all adults residing in the UK. Officials say the initiative is designed to curb illegal immigration by providing a more efficient means of verifying identity, residency, and eligibility for public services.

Under the scheme, every adult will be required to register their personal details, which will be stored in a centralized database accessible to relevant government agencies. The card will also carry biometric features, such as facial recognition and fingerprint data, in a bid to reduce cases of identity fraud.

Home Office representatives stated that the measure is part of broader reforms to the UK’s border management and immigration enforcement system. Authorities believe the digital ID will help close loopholes exploited by undocumented migrants and streamline access to healthcare, employment, and housing, ensuring that only legally resident individuals benefit from public resources.

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters argue that the BritCard will bring transparency, improve security, and align the UK with other advanced economies that already operate digital ID systems. Critics, however, warn of potential privacy infringements and the risks of centralized data collection. Civil liberties groups have also raised concerns about surveillance and possible misuse of personal information.

The government has yet to confirm an official rollout date, though preliminary testing of the system is expected to begin in the coming year.

If implemented, the BritCard would mark the UK’s most comprehensive attempt at establishing a nationwide identity management system since the controversial national ID card proposals scrapped more than a decade ago.

 

Kano Authorities Recover N80m Worth of Stolen School IT Equipment

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Kano Authorities Recover N80m Worth of Stolen School IT Equipment

KANO, September 24, 2025 — Security officials in Kano State have intercepted more than N80 million worth of information technology equipment allegedly stolen from a government-owned school in the Fagge district of the city.

The Kano State Road and Traffic Agency (KAROTA) confirmed the recovery on Wednesday, stating that its patrol officers responded to a midnight distress call from Aisha Shehu Government Junior Secondary School. The intruders, according to the agency, had broken into the school’s computer room and carted away solar panels, desktop computers, and other accessories intended for students’ use.

In a statement released by KAROTA spokesman Abubakar Ibrahim, the agency disclosed that the attackers, believed to number around ten, gained entry by scaling the roof of the building. They reportedly overpowered the security guards on duty, tied them up, and removed the equipment before attempting to escape.

KAROTA officials said the prompt response of patrol teams led to the interception of the stolen items, though it did not provide details on whether arrests were made. Ibrahim added that investigations are ongoing to track down all those involved in the burglary.

The incident has sparked concern among education stakeholders in Kano, who have warned that repeated attacks on public school infrastructure threaten the state government’s investment in digital learning and solar-powered technology for classrooms.

Authorities assured that security around schools would be strengthened, while the recovered equipment is expected to be returned to the institution after due process.

 

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