Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave new impetus to the effort to keep Lagos flood-free on Tuesday by commissioning the second batch of 19 high-capacity drainage clearing and maintenance equipment.
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Speaking at the event, which took place at the EFAG Yard in Oregun, Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello, stated that Lagos would never again be labeled as a flood-ravaged city.
Because of the nature of Lagos as a coastal city, he emphasized that the State Government will always be one step ahead in terms of preparations for the rainy season and its aftermath.
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He stated that his administration will continue to consciously position the Office of Drainage Services to perform its statutory roles, adding that the equipment will be evenly distributed throughout Lagos.
He explained that the new tipping trucks, among other pieces of equipment, have addressed complaints about the non-removal of silts from drains in short periods of time.
The Governor, who stated that the equipment and vehicles are the second batch to be procured, stated that more will be provided in the future.
The drainage maintenance equipment that was commissioned included two (2) Loader Black Hoe Models, one (1) Low Loader Trailer, one (1) Track Loader, four (4) Wheel Pick up, and one (1) Track Loader. Five (5) Tipper Trucks, two (2) Light Cargo Trucks, and one (1) Low Bed Horse are available. One (1) crane truck and two (2) floodlights will be used in the state’s fight against flooding.
Engr Joe Igbokwe, Special Adviser on Drainage and Water Resources, stated in his remarks that the government recognizes its responsibility to develop strategic methods that will improve the environment and ensure that the State is flood-free and beautiful for residents.
He went on to say that this feat would only be possible if all drainage channels in the state were cleaned on a regular basis.
Speaking at the event, Engr. Lekan Shodeinde, Permanent Secretary Office of Drainage Services, stated that the Ministry is confident that the new set of equipment will improve efficiency in providing all-year-round drainage maintenance for effective and efficient flood management in the State.
The Permanent Secretary stated that the first batch of equipment was purchased in 2019 and has since been put to use, and that the second batch that is currently being commissioned will be used to supplement existing ones.
Later, the Governor’s representative handed over the new equipment and trucks before riding in one of the tipping trucks with the Special Adviser, Engr Joe Igbokwe, to the delight of all those present.