At the heart of current concerns and major environmental challenges is the turbulent landscape of the Oyan Dam waters in Lagos State, Nigeria. As state authorities warn residents, especially those living in the floodplains, about the systemic release of water from the Oyan Dam by the Ogun Osun Basin Authority, many questions are emerging about the management and impacts of the water releases.
Against a backdrop of heavy rainfall forecasts, the Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, recently addressed a press conference in Alausa, Ikeja, to update the public on the unfolding situation. He highlighted the importance of the measures taken by the Ogun Osun Basin Authority to manage flood risks while preserving the integrity of the dam.
The numbers are there to attest to the vigilance exercised in the management of the dam’s water. With a total water release of 1,484.2 million cubic metres so far this year, the Authority maintains strict control over outflows, ensuring that discharges remain within safe limits. Real-time hydrological data, rainfall forecasts from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency and flood outlooks from the Nigerian Hydrological Services Agency guide water release decisions, ensuring both flood control and the reliability of the dam.
Beyond the raw numbers, it is essential to recognise the complexity of the river systems that govern water levels along the Ogun River and its tributaries. The 52 tributaries converge to feed the floods and influence water levels in the affected areas, combining with rain runoff to aggravate the flood situation. The recent dredging of the Ogun River downstream from Ikorodu towards Isheri is a proactive initiative aimed at increasing the capacity of the riverbed to carry water, thereby reducing the risk of flooding during peak periods.
In parallel, Lagos State has undertaken maintenance dredging works in several risk areas, anticipating potential water releases from the Basin Authority. This coordination between the authorities and proactive interventions demonstrates the State’s commitment to ensuring the safety of the populations living along flood-prone waterways.
In conclusion, the issue of flooding and water management remains a major public concern in Lagos. The collaboration between the local authorities and the Ogun Osun Basin Authority ensures that water flows from the Oyan Dam are carefully and preventively controlled, thereby minimizing risks to downstream communities.Vigilance, preparedness and cooperation remain the key words in water management and the prevention of environmental disasters.