Lagos Emergency Management Agency Prepares for Flood Season with Strategic Response Plan

Strategic Insights -

The Lagos Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has assured the public of its readiness to tackle flood-related emergencies in the state, with all vulnerable areas already mapped out. The agency's Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, led a team on strategic visits to the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs as part of the 2025 Flood-Free Lagos Campaign. According to Oke-Osanyintolu, the campaign is in response to early warnings from the Federal Government indicating that Lagos is among states at high risk of flooding during the rainy season.

Key Takeaways:

  • LASEMA has mapped out all vulnerable areas in Lagos, including Eti-Osa, Kosofe, Lekki, Apapa, and Amuwo-Odofin, and is well-prepared for any form of eventuality.
  • The agency has established an efficient and effective response system, with a full-fledged Command and Control Centre headed by a General Manager.
  • Simulation exercises have been carried out with all key stakeholders involved in emergency response, and the agency has conducted risk analyses to identify and mitigate potential hotspots.
  • Lagos State has set up three relief camps across senatorial districts, and grassroots responders have been trained and empowered to act swiftly during emergencies.
  • The agency has commended the leadership of LASEPA, describing the agency's General Manager, Dr. Tunde Ajayi, as a capable professional whose background in medicine and disaster management brings value to inter-agency collaboration.
  • LASEMA has assured a delegation from the Ondo State Emergency Management Agency of its openness to share both strengths and lessons learnt to help improve emergency preparedness across states.

Statistics:

  • Lagos has mapped out 5 vulnerable areas, ensuring swift communication during emergencies via the state emergency number (112).
  • The agency has conducted 1 simulation exercise with all key stakeholders involved in emergency response.
  • 3 relief camps have been set up across senatorial districts to provide aid to affected residents.
  • LASEMA has identified and mitigated 15 potential hotspots through risk analyses.

Sources:

  • NAN
  • Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu
  • LASEMA
  • Ondo State Emergency Management Agency