The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has raised an urgent warning that Lagos could face devastating flooding and potential submersion if immediate measures are not taken to combat the effects of climate change.
Speaking at a Strategic Stakeholders Meeting held in Ikeja, Lagos, Dr. Hamzat emphasized the unique vulnerability of the state due to its geographical location, population density, and limited land space.
He pointed out that these factors, combined with the growing impacts of climate change, put the state in an increasingly precarious situation.
“Lagos State, because of our geography, because of our population, because of our size—we are 22 million people, occupying less than 0.38% of Nigeria’s land mass—we are responsible for 10% of the people,” he explained.
“We also have a 180-kilometre shoreline, which makes us highly susceptible to rising sea levels.”
Drawing comparisons with major global cities like New York and London, where climate impacts are already forcing residents to relocate, Dr. Hamzat noted that these cities are facing similar risks.
He mentioned that New York City has halted approvals for new high-rise buildings over concerns that the weight of existing structures could cause the city to sink, underscoring the seriousness of the situation for coastal urban centres like Lagos.
He identified three primary threats to Lagos: climate change, rising sea levels, and extreme heat.
Without decisive and sustained intervention, Dr. Hamzat warned that Lagos could face catastrophic consequences in the coming decades.
“If we do not prioritize action within the next 20 to 25 years, the future of Lagos is in jeopardy,” he cautioned.
The deputy governor also called on legal and judicial stakeholders to take these environmental concerns into account when making decisions related to land use and urban planning.
He stressed that proper land management and strategic planning are critical to mitigating the risks posed by climate change and preserving Lagos for future generations.
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