The Banana Island Property Owners and Residents Association (BIPORAL) has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to take swift action to address persistent flooding affecting the upscale community, attributing the issue to unresolved drainage challenges.
During the commissioning of several projects within Banana Island Estate, Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the need for collaborative efforts between residents and the government to enhance infrastructure across Lagos. The governor, alongside BIPORAL’s outgoing chairman, Frank Aigbogun, attended the event on Saturday, where key projects were unveiled, including a new administrative office, recreation park, astro-turf football pitch, fire truck, and clubhouse.
Addressing the flooding issues raised by Aigbogun, Sanwo-Olu assured residents that the Ministry of Environment would inspect the estate’s access road to identify sustainable solutions. However, he pointed out that the flooding may stem from structures built over natural water channels, stating that illegal buildings obstructing waterways could face demolition.
“Someone has built a house over a water channel, preventing proper flow to the sea,” Sanwo-Olu remarked, urging residents to cooperate with the government to restore proper drainage. He further stated, “While we do not aim to disrupt lives, we must take decisive action to prevent flooding hazards.”
The governor also instructed the Ministry of Environment and Waterfront Infrastructure to investigate and propose lasting remedies for the flooding. He emphasized the importance of maintaining newly commissioned facilities for future generations, underscoring the need for a national shift towards better maintenance practices.
Sanwo-Olu commended BIPORAL’s outgoing executives, led by Aigbogun, and incoming members under Abidemi Sonoiki, for their compliance with state regulations and proactive community leadership. He noted that the state government values its ongoing positive relationship with Banana Island residents, who are committed to meeting building standards and contributing to Lagos’ development.
Aigbogun, in his speech, highlighted the association’s commitment to enhancing communal living through projects that foster a safe, vibrant, and healthy environment. He also urged the governor to expedite repairs on the estate’s access road to alleviate travel disruptions caused by recurring floods.
