Natural Hazards Common in Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos is one of the most climate-vulnerable cities in Nigeria. The most common natural hazards include flooding, coastal erosion, storm surges, heat waves, and water pollution. Among these, urban flooding is the most frequent and destructive hazard.
Impact of Climate Change on These Hazards
Climate change has significantly increased the frequency and intensity of these events. Rising sea levels, heavier and more unpredictable rainfall, and higher temperatures have worsened flooding and coastal erosion. Poor drainage systems combined with climate-driven extreme rainfall mean floods now occur more often and last longer than in the past.
Areas Facing the Greatest Impacts
The most affected areas in Lagos include:
Coastal and low-lying areas such as Victoria Island, Lekki, Ajegunle, Makoko, Ikoyi, and Badagry
Flood-prone mainland areas like Ikeja, Mushin, Agege, and Alimosho
These areas are highly vulnerable due to their proximity to water bodies, poor drainage, land reclamation, and rapid urbanization.
Communities Most Affected: How and Why
The most affected communities are low-income and informal settlements, especially those living near lagoons, canals, and flood plains.
How they are affected:
Loss of homes and property
Disruption of livelihoods (traders, fishermen, transport workers)
Increased spread of water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid
Children missing school and families being displaced
Why they are most affected:
Poor housing structures
Lack of proper drainage and waste management
Limited access to emergency services and insurance
High population density
Local Coping and Adaptation Methods
Communities in Lagos use several local methods to cope with these hazards:
Raising house foundations and walkways
Using sandbags and wooden planks during floods
Clearing drainage channels collectively
Temporary relocation during peak flooding periods
Relying on community support networks and informal warning systems
While these methods help in the short term, they are often not sustainable.
Institutional and External Support
Yes, several institutions support affected communities:
Government Support
Lagos State Government through agencies like LASEMA and Ministry of Environment
Drainage construction and desilting projects
Emergency response and relief materials during floods
Flood warnings and public awareness campaigns
NGOs and External Stakeholders
Local and international NGOs provide:
Relief materials (food, water, medical aid)
Climate education and community training
Support for resilience and adaptation projects
International organizations support flood control, climate research, and policy development
Conclusion
Climate change has intensified natural hazards in Lagos, particularly flooding. Coastal and low-income communities face the greatest risks due to environmental and socio-economic factors. While local coping strategies and institutional support exist, long-term solutions require strong climate policies, improved urban planning, community engagement, and sustained investment in resilience.