In a bid to tackle the growing challenge of flooding in Nigeria, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (O-ORBDA), Dr. Adedeji Ashiru, has urged Nigerians to stop indiscriminate waste disposal, identifying it as a key contributor to flooding across the country.
Speaking during the launch of a capacity-building and flood awareness training programme held in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, Ashiru — represented by the Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Ayobami Oyalowo — stressed the urgent need for proper waste management and improved drainage systems.
Themed “Alleviating the Impact of Flood Through Proper Waste Disposal and Adequate Drainage System,” the training emphasized the role of individual behavior in flood prevention efforts.
“Floods are not just natural disasters. Many are man-made, driven by poor waste disposal practices and ineffective drainage infrastructure,” Ashiru said. “We must stop dumping refuse into waterways and avoid building on flood plains. These irresponsible actions block natural water paths, leading to severe flooding.”
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Ashiru added that the O-ORBDA is taking proactive steps through various flood control and erosion prevention projects, while also intensifying public sensitisation campaigns to reduce flood risk in urban and rural communities.
Also speaking at the event, Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, reinforced the need for improved urban planning and suggested covering open drainage systems to curb illegal dumping of waste.
“We should integrate covered drainage channels into our urban infrastructure. This will minimize the temptation of using them as dumping grounds and help reduce flood-related disasters,” Oresanya stated, noting that such changes should be incorporated into the state’s long-term climate resilience strategies.
In support of the initiative, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab — represented by Babatunde Akinwumi — applauded the training, aligning it with Lagos State’s ongoing efforts to address flooding through robust environmental policies.
Wahab emphasized that flood control in Nigeria cannot be left to the government alone. “Every citizen must take responsibility. Avoiding the dumping of refuse into waterways is a collective duty that will safeguard lives and properties,” he said.
