The Lagos State Government has issued an urgent plea for action to combat the escalating threat of flooding, emphasizing the critical need for robust flood defenses and a unified commitment to sustainable environmental practices.
The state faces mounting risks from rising sea levels and increased flooding, prompting a call for proactive measures.
In a statement released on X.com on Thursday, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, underscored the urgency of the situation. He stated, “The whispers are gone. Climate change is here, and the water is at our doors.
From Mumbai to Miami, from Dubai to Dublin, cities worldwide are grappling with the stark reality of devastating floods and monumental tsunamis.”
Wahab pointed to compelling scientific evidence indicating global warming’s impact, leading to erratic weather patterns, intensified storms, and elevated sea levels.
These factors contribute to heavier rainfall and pose a growing threat to coastal communities.
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He emphasized the recent visual reminders of these dangers, with entire neighborhoods submerged and communities battling against relentless currents. “The science is undeniable.
Our planet is warming, leading to unpredictable weather and higher sea levels,” Wahab remarked, drawing attention to the urgent need for action.
Speaking directly about Lagos, Wahab stated, “Here in Lagos, we stand at a crossroads. We are a bustling city, a hub of commerce and culture, but we are also vulnerable.
The rising sea level poses a direct threat to our foundations.”
The commissioner stressed the imperative for immediate steps to safeguard infrastructure, homes, and lives, stressing that addressing global warming demands collective responsibility and decisive action.
“Now is the time to act decisively,” Wahab urged. “We must implement robust flood defenses and commit to sustainable environmental practices to protect our infrastructure, homes, and, most importantly, our people.”
He concluded with a call to maintain cleanliness and ensure unimpeded water flow to mitigate flood risks, emphasizing, “Global warming is a reality that requires each of us to play our part in safeguarding our environment.”
