The Federal Government and the Lagos State Government have agreed to strengthen collaboration on flood management, water supply and sanitation as the state continues to face increasing environmental challenges.
The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, disclosed this during a visit to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at Lagos House, Marina, on Thursday.
Utsev said Lagos was among 33 states identified by the Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency (NIHSA) as being at high risk of flooding in 2026, stressing the need for urgent measures to prevent disasters.
According to him, the Annual Flood Outlook 2026 highlighted the importance of proactive planning, improved early warning systems and stronger cooperation between federal and state authorities.
The minister attributed Lagos’ increasing flood risks to its coastal location, rapid urban development, climate change, rising sea levels and increased rainfall patterns.
He assured that the Federal Government would work with Lagos State to improve flood resilience through integrated water resource management, upgraded drainage systems, nature-based solutions, better urban planning and stronger institutional coordination.
Utsev also announced that the government had introduced the National Flood Intelligence Monitoring System and the Multi-Hazard Flood Early Warning System to improve flood prediction and emergency response.
He welcomed Lagos State’s interest in joining the Sustainable Urban and Rural Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (SURWASH) programme, describing it as an important initiative for improving access to clean water and sanitation services.
Responding, Governor Sanwo-Olu welcomed the federal government’s support, noting that Lagos remained highly vulnerable to climate-related challenges.
The governor stressed the importance of sustained cooperation between federal and state authorities in developing practical and lasting solutions to reduce the impact of climate change.
Sanwo-Olu said continued partnership would help strengthen environmental protection and improve the safety and wellbeing of residents across the state.
