Lagos halts unauthorised wetland reclamation over flood risks

Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu warned residents and developers against building on wetlands and drainage channels, saying their destruction worsens flooding and coastal erosion. Since September 2025, the state has suspended reclamation on wetlands, floodplains and lagoon fronts where developers lack the required environmental and drainage approvals. Sanwo-Olu said Lagos generates about 13,000 tonnes of waste daily, around 15 per cent of it plastic, much of which enters drains and canals. He urged residents to reduce single-use plastics and stop dumping rubbish in drains, and cited investments in drainage, mangrove restoration and tree planting.