Sanwo-Olu Warns Lagos Residents Against Building on Wetlands

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has warned residents against building on wetlands, stressing the need to protect the state's environmentally sensitive areas.

The governor's warning highlights concerns over the conversion of wetlands for residential and commercial developments, particularly in a state where flooding remains a major environmental challenge.

Wetlands play an important role in absorbing excess rainfall, storing floodwater and supporting biodiversity. Building on or reclaiming these areas can reduce their capacity to manage water naturally, increasing the risk of flooding in surrounding communities.

Sanwo-Olu's position also underscores the importance of enforcing environmental and physical planning regulations to prevent unauthorised developments in areas designated for conservation or other restricted uses.

Lagos, which has an extensive coastline and numerous lagoons, creeks and low-lying communities, faces persistent pressure from urbanisation, population growth and demand for housing. These pressures have contributed to the conversion of natural landscapes, including wetlands, for development.

Protecting such areas is considered important to the state's wider efforts to improve flood management, preserve ecological systems and promote sustainable urban development.

Residents and property developers are therefore expected to comply with planning requirements and avoid construction on land where development is prohibited.

The state government's warning reinforces the need for cooperation among residents, developers and relevant agencies to protect wetlands and reduce environmental risks across Lagos.