Authors : Emmanuel Afeonkhai; Oluchi Nwaizim

Volume/Issue : Volume 10 - 2025, Issue 10 - October

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/48vykybd

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/mryem4b8

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/25oct1290

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Abstract : Flooding has become one of the most critical climate-related hazards in Lagos, Nigeria, with the 2025 floods severely impacting Island districts such as Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, and Lekki, displacing thousands and disrupting economic activity. This paper reframes Lagos’ flood crisis as primarily a legal and governance challenge rather than a purely infrastructural one. Using a qualitative case study approach, the study reviews Nigeria’s Climate Change Act (2021), Lagos State drainage and planning laws, and recent flood impact data. Findings show that despite multiple policy instruments, enforcement remains weak, institutional mandates are fragmented, and dredging, sandfilling, and reclamation activities continue to heighten flood risk. The paper proposes a Lagos State Flood Risk Management Law, cumulative impact assessments for reclamation projects, a multi-agency Flood Governance Council, and participatory risk governance mechanisms. Applying polycentric, adaptive, and risk governance theories, this study demonstrates how legal innovation can strengthen climate-responsive institutions and advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 11 and 13).

Keywords : Lagos Flooding; Climate Change Adaptation; Legal Innovation; Polycentric Governance; Sustainable Urban Development.

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