In response to devastating flooding that inundated several communities in Apapa Local Government Area, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Lagos Operations Office conducted an extensive impact assessment on Friday, August 22, 2025. The operation, which covered six wards—E, F, G, H, I, and J—aimed to evaluate the scale of destruction, identify the root causes of the flooding, document the number of affected individuals and properties, and raise awareness about the importance of adhering to weather alerts issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET). The assessment, carried out in collaboration with local representatives, underscores NEMA’s commitment to mitigating the effects of natural disasters and protecting vulnerable communities in Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic hub.
The flooding, which swept through neighborhoods such as Ladejobi, Arewa, Ojora, Baale Street, Oke-Oja, Church Street, Zion Street, and Adeleye, left a trail of destruction in its wake. Homes, shops, schools, roads, and other critical infrastructure were submerged, causing significant losses for residents and businesses. The disaster disrupted livelihoods, displaced families, and exposed the affected communities to serious health risks, including waterborne diseases. NEMA’s timely intervention highlights the agency’s proactive approach to disaster management and its dedication to supporting communities grappling with the impacts of climate-related challenges.
A Detailed Assessment of the Flood’s Impact
The assessment operation, conducted by a team of NEMA officials led by Assistant Director Adenike Ibitayo, Head of Search and Rescue, was a meticulous effort to document the extent of the damage caused by the flooding. The team worked closely with local representatives, including community leaders and ward officials, to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the affected areas. The six wards covered in the assessment—E, F, G, H, I, and J—represent some of the most densely populated and commercially active parts of Apapa, making the flooding’s impact particularly severe.
NEMA’s mission had several key objectives. First, the agency sought to quantify the scale of destruction, including the number of homes, businesses, and public facilities affected by the floods. This involved inspecting flooded neighborhoods, speaking with residents, and documenting the damage to infrastructure. Second, the team aimed to identify the underlying causes of the flooding, which has become a recurring issue in Apapa and other parts of Lagos. Third, NEMA sought to record the number of individuals impacted, including those displaced or otherwise affected by the disaster. Finally, the agency used the opportunity to educate residents about the importance of heeding weather alerts issued by NiMET, particularly in light of predictions of more heavy rainfall in the coming weeks.
The assessment revealed a grim picture of the flooding’s toll on Apapa’s communities. Homes were inundated, with many residents losing personal belongings, furniture, and other valuables to the floodwaters. Shops and small businesses, which form the backbone of the local economy, suffered significant losses as goods and equipment were damaged or destroyed. Schools, critical for the education of the area’s children, were also affected, with classrooms and learning materials submerged. Roads, already strained by heavy traffic in Apapa, became impassable, further disrupting daily life and economic activities. The flooding’s impact on critical infrastructure, such as drainage systems and public utilities, compounded the challenges faced by residents.
Root Causes: Insufficient Drainage and Poor Waste Management
NEMA’s initial findings pointed to two primary factors contributing to the severity of the flooding: inadequate drainage infrastructure and poor waste management practices. According to the agency’s report, the affected areas lack sufficient drainage systems to effectively channel stormwater into major canals, a problem exacerbated by the rapid urbanization and population growth in Apapa. The existing drains, where present, were often clogged with solid waste, including plastic bags, bottles, and other debris, leading to overflow and widespread inundation.
“The affected areas lack adequate drainage infrastructure to effectively channel stormwater into major canals,” NEMA stated in its report. “Waste blocking existing drains led to overflow and widespread inundation, significantly worsening the flooding.” This finding highlights a systemic issue in many urban areas of Nigeria, where rapid development has outpaced the provision of essential infrastructure, leaving communities vulnerable to natural disasters like flooding.
Poor waste management practices were identified as a critical aggravating factor. Improper disposal of refuse by residents and businesses has led to the accumulation of debris in drainage channels, preventing the free flow of water during heavy rains. This issue is particularly pronounced in densely populated areas like Apapa, where the high volume of waste generated daily often overwhelms local sanitation systems. The clogging of drains not only exacerbates flooding but also creates unsanitary conditions that pose significant health risks to residents.
Health Risks and Community Impacts
Assistant Director Adenike Ibitayo, who led the assessment, emphasized the serious health risks posed by the flooding. “Flooding in these communities not only disrupts livelihoods but also exposes residents to heightened risks of waterborne diseases and infections, largely due to improper waste disposal practices,” she said. The stagnant floodwaters, contaminated with sewage and debris, create breeding grounds for pathogens, increasing the likelihood of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, and malaria. These health risks are particularly concerning for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Ibitayo’s remarks underscore the broader implications of the flooding beyond property damage. The disruption of livelihoods has left many residents struggling to recover, particularly those who rely on small businesses or daily wage labor. The submersion of homes has forced some families to seek temporary shelter with relatives or in makeshift accommodations, adding to their financial and emotional burdens. Schools, which serve as vital community hubs, have been rendered unusable in some cases, threatening to disrupt the education of children and exacerbate existing inequalities.
The flooding’s impact on Apapa’s infrastructure also has long-term consequences for the area’s development. Damaged roads and public facilities will require significant investment to repair, placing additional strain on local government resources. The disruption of commercial activities, particularly in areas like the Arena Market and other trading hubs, has ripple effects on the local economy, affecting traders, suppliers, and consumers alike. These challenges highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address both the immediate and long-term effects of the flooding.
NEMA’s Call for Vigilance and Proactive Measures
With NiMET forecasting more heavy rainfall in the coming weeks, NEMA used the assessment as an opportunity to urge residents of Apapa to remain vigilant and adopt proactive measures to protect lives and property. “Residents are strongly encouraged to remain vigilant and implement proactive safety measures in accordance with weather advisories,” the agency stated. These measures include clearing drains and gutters around homes and businesses, elevating valuable items above flood levels, and avoiding flooded areas to reduce the risk of injury or drowning.
NEMA’s call for vigilance is particularly timely given the increasing frequency and intensity of flooding in Lagos, driven by a combination of climate change, urbanization, and inadequate infrastructure. The agency emphasized the importance of heeding NiMET’s weather alerts, which provide critical information about impending rainfall and potential flood risks. By acting on these warnings, residents can take steps to mitigate the impact of flooding and protect their communities.
The agency also stressed the need for collective action to address the root causes of flooding. Improving drainage infrastructure and promoting proper waste management practices require collaboration between residents, local authorities, and other stakeholders. NEMA pledged to continue working with the Lagos State government and other partners to develop sustainable solutions to the flooding problem, including investments in drainage systems and public awareness campaigns to encourage responsible waste disposal.
A Broader Context: Flooding Challenges in Lagos
The flooding in Apapa is part of a broader pattern of climate-related challenges facing Lagos, one of Africa’s largest and most densely populated cities. The city’s low-lying coastal location, combined with rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure, makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding. Heavy rainfall, often exacerbated by climate change, overwhelms the city’s drainage systems, leading to widespread inundation in both residential and commercial areas.
Apapa, as a key industrial and port hub, faces unique challenges due to its economic significance and high population density. The area’s proximity to the Lagos Lagoon and its role as a gateway for Nigeria’s maritime trade make it a critical part of the city’s infrastructure, but also a hotspot for flooding. The recurring nature of these floods underscores the need for long-term solutions, including investments in modern drainage systems, urban planning reforms, and community-based disaster preparedness initiatives.
NEMA’s assessment in Apapa is a step toward addressing these challenges, but it also highlights the scale of the problem. The agency’s findings will inform future interventions, including emergency relief efforts, infrastructure upgrades, and public education campaigns. By documenting the number of affected individuals and properties, NEMA can better advocate for resources and support from the federal and state governments, as well as international partners.
Looking Ahead: Building Resilience in Apapa
The flooding in Apapa serves as a wake-up call for stakeholders at all levels to prioritize disaster preparedness and resilience. NEMA’s assessment is just the beginning of what will likely be a multi-faceted response to the crisis. In the short term, the agency is expected to coordinate relief efforts to support affected residents, including the provision of food, shelter, and medical assistance. These efforts will be critical in helping communities recover and rebuild in the aftermath of the floods.
In the long term, addressing the root causes of flooding will require significant investment and collaboration. Upgrading drainage infrastructure, enforcing waste management regulations, and promoting sustainable urban planning are essential steps toward reducing the risk of future floods. NEMA’s partnership with local representatives during the assessment demonstrates the value of community engagement in disaster management, and similar collaborations will be key to implementing lasting solutions.
The agency’s call for residents to adopt proactive safety measures also highlights the importance of community-level action. By clearing drains, disposing of waste properly, and staying informed about weather alerts, residents can play a critical role in mitigating the impact of flooding. Public awareness campaigns, supported by NEMA and other stakeholders, can further empower communities to take ownership of their safety and resilience.
A Call to Action
The flooding in Apapa is a stark reminder of the challenges posed by climate change and urbanization in Nigeria’s urban centers. NEMA’s comprehensive assessment, conducted with professionalism and urgency, sets the stage for a coordinated response to the crisis. The agency’s findings, which highlight the role of inadequate drainage and poor waste management in exacerbating the floods, provide a roadmap for addressing the root causes of the problem.
As Lagos braces for more heavy rainfall, the lessons learned from Apapa must inform broader efforts to build resilience across the city. NEMA’s work in Apapa is a testament to the agency’s commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods in the face of natural disasters. By working with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders, NEMA is helping to create a safer, more resilient future for Lagos and its residents.
In conclusion, the flooding in Apapa is a call to action for all Nigerians to prioritize disaster preparedness and environmental stewardship. NEMA’s assessment, coupled with its call for vigilance and proactive measures, underscores the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the challenges of flooding. As the agency continues its work, the people of Apapa and beyond can take hope in the knowledge that efforts are underway to mitigate the impact of future disasters and build a stronger, more resilient community.
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