Umahi Rejects Lagos Flooding Claims .... Says Coastal Highway Designed to Improve Drainage, Support Long-term Flood Control.

Engr David Umahi 
Minister of Works

.... Attributes persistent flooding to indiscriminate refuse dumping, blocked drainage channels, and widespread violations of environmental regulations by residents.

The claims that the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway is responsible for flooding in parts of Lagos, has been dismissed by the Minister of Works, David Umahi who also insisted that the project was designed to improve drainage and support long-term flood control.

Speaking during an inspection of completed and ongoing sections of the highway alongside members of the National Assembly, officials of the Federal Ministry of Environment and the media, Umahi attributed the persistent flooding to indiscriminate refuse dumping, blocked drainage channels, and widespread violations of environmental regulations by residents.

He said the Federal Government, working with the Lagos State Government, had initiated dredging, drainage improvements and other remediation measures to address flooding, warning that structures obstructing drainage channels or violating the approved right-of-way would be removed.

According to the minister, the coastal highway incorporates modern engineering features, including culverts, drainage systems and embankments designed to effectively evacuate stormwater, stressing that the project complements other flood-control initiatives across Lagos.

Umahi disclosed that Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed the inspection as part of the administration's commitment to protecting lives, property and critical infrastructure. He also announced a stakeholders' meeting involving the National Assembly, Lagos State Government, the Federal Ministry of Environment and other relevant agencies to strengthen collaboration on flood management and environmental protection.

Backing the Minister's position, lawmakers, including Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, Allwell Onyesoh and Akin Alabi, maintained that flooding in Lagos predates the highway project and urged adherence to expert recommendations to tackle the impacts of climate change.

To safeguard the highway, Umahi directed the Federal Controller of Works in Lagos to enforce environmental standards and announced the recruitment of 40 personnel to prevent vandalism and illegal refuse dumping along the corridor.

This is contained in a statement issued and signed by Mohammed A Ahmed, Director Press and Public Relations Department of the Federal Ministry of Works, Abuja.