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The Lagos State Government has launched a drainage renewal project on Lagos Island, creating natural water channels along road networks in flood-prone areas as part of a broader regeneration plan.
The initiative, which aims to reduce recurring flooding, improve road infrastructure, and enhance residents’ living conditions, was announced during the groundbreaking of an ultra-modern shopping mall at the site of the former Pelewura iron rod market, Adeniji Adele.
The project is being executed by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, through the Office of Urban Development, in collaboration with the Lagos Island Local Council Development Area. It is scheduled for completion within one year.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Oluyinka Olumide, said the redevelopment of Pelewura market formed a key part of the government’s master plan for Lagos Island.
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“In theory, Lagos Island is not below sea level, but it is very close. This makes the management of drainage flow critical,” Olumide explained. “What we are planning now is to create natural drainage channels, which requires removing structures that block water flow. The result will be a return to the days when we had free-flowing drains. As a child, I remember making paper boats and racing them with friends on the streets. That was possible because water could move freely. That is what we want to restore to Lagos Island.”
Also speaking at the event, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Urban Development, Olajide Abiodun, described the proposed mall as a symbol of renewal for Lagos Island.
The Chairman of Lagos Island LCDA, Folawiyo Alade, pledged that the project would be delivered on schedule, assuring residents that both the drainage and mall developments would significantly improve the landscape of the community.
