HON. OLOWA CALLS FOR COMMUNITY COOPERATION
The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, through the Office of Drainage Services (ODS), today held a stakeholder engagement with residents and community leaders to deliberate on the urgent restoration of the Shapati Canal (Channel 132).
Speaking at the meeting held at the Ayeteju Community Centre, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, underscored the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring the canal functions effectively. He emphasized that keeping drainage channels clear is not merely a regulatory exercise but a vital safeguard for lives, property, and public health.
Hon. Olowa urged residents to give their full cooperation, stressing that removing contraventions such as encroachments, illegal structures, and overgrown vegetation is crucial to preventing flooding and protecting the community from environmental hazards.
Presentations were delivered by ODS officials Engr. Adewunmi, Engr. Junaid, and Engr. Zubair who explained the technical and safety reasons behind securing rights-of-way for drainage infrastructure. They noted that unobstructed access is essential for regular maintenance, inspections, and swift response during emergencies.
Residents were also briefed on common violations including construction on drainage easements, and were guided on processes for voluntary compliance. Alternatives were discussed to help property owners adjust without undermining drainage infrastructure.
The Ministry further announced that follow-up inspections will be carried out within two weeks, after which enforcement will begin if contraventions are not addressed. Officials assured the community that the process will be handled fairly and transparently.
The interactive session allowed homeowners, business operators, and environmental advocates to raise concerns and seek clarifications, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and mutual understanding.
