WORLD HABITAT DAY 2025: SANWO-OLU CALLS FOR COLLECTIVE ACTION FOR FLOOD-RESILIENT LAGOS (PHOTOS)
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By: Sefiu Ajape
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called for greater collaboration on flood-resilient measures to protect lives and livelihoods and strengthen Lagos’ capacity to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the Governor made the call during the World Habitat Day 2025 celebration held on Monday, October 6, at The Blue Roof, Lagos Television (LTV), Agidingbi, Ikeja.
Sanwo-Olu said this year’s theme, “Urban Crisis Response: Flooding in Focus,” reflected the realities of Lagos as a coastal megacity and underscored the need for decisive and sustained action.
According to him, flooding has become a persistent urban challenge requiring proactive long-term planning, sustainable investment, and active community engagement.
He explained that urban resilience remains a core component of the State’s development framework, the T.H.E.M.E.S.+ Agenda, with the Lagos State Resilience Office (LASRO) coordinating policies and projects aimed at mitigating flood risks.
The Governor urged private investors, development partners, and innovators to cooperate toward a sustainable and resilient Lagos, particularly in areas of climate adaptation and mangrove restoration in coastal zones, citing the “worthy partnership of the Dangote Group” as an example.
“Investing in flood-resilient housing, smart drainage systems, renewable energy, and urban-risk insurance will safeguard communities while creating new avenues for growth,” he said.
The Governor added that his administration’s goal is to make Lagos not only livable but also sustainable for future generations.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, described World Habitat Day as an opportunity for governments and citizens to reflect on the state of human settlements and reaffirm their commitment to sustainable urban planning.
He noted that flooding in Lagos “is not theoretical but a lived experience” that demands proactive governance, stronger enforcement of development regulations, and the integration of climate adaptation principles into urban design.
Dr. Olumide stressed that physical planning in the State goes beyond permits and building approvals, encompassing community resilience, sustainable construction practices, and inclusive development.
The Commissioner commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership for prioritising infrastructure renewal, flood control, and dignified housing delivery across the State.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Engr. Oluwole Sotire, appreciated all partners, youth participants, and stakeholders for contributing to the success of the event while reaffirming the State Government’s resolve to deepen collaboration with all sectors to build a more sustainable and flood-resilient Lagos.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Special Adviser, e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde; Chairman, Association of Town Planning Consultants of Nigeria (ATOPCON), Tpl. Hakeem Badejo; Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners, Lagos State Chapter, Tpl. Dele Akindele; and the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Engr. Mahmood Adegbite.
The 2025 World Habitat Day celebration featured expert lectures, exhibitions, and youth debates showcasing innovative solutions in housing, flood management, and environmental sustainability.
The event, which was organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, highlights the State Government’s ongoing efforts in urban resilience, drainage improvement, and community adaptation strategies amid rapid urbanization and climate change pressures.
World Habitat Day is marked on the first Monday of October each year and is recognized by the United Nations to reflect on the state of towns and cities, and on the basic right of all to adequate shelter.
See more photos from the event below:
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