The Lagos State Government has urged stakeholders to unite in addressing the growing number of drowning incidents across the state, emphasizing collaboration as key to prevention.
The call was made during the 2025 World Drowning Prevention Day event held in Amuwo Odofin, organized by the Lagos State Safety Commission.
Speaking on behalf of Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations Olugbenga Oyerinde, Permanent Secretary Sesan Ogundeko stressed the need for coordinated efforts.
“We must work together, government agencies, civil society, and citizens to implement effective safety measures, raise awareness, and ensure quick response to emergencies,” he said, adding, “Let us learn from this global call. The goal is universal: to save lives. Policymakers must adopt and support a national drowning prevention strategy.”
The event, marking the United Nations-designated World Drowning Prevention Day on July 25, adopted the theme “Your Story Can Save a Life – Drowning Prevention Through Shared Experiences.”
Attended by students, youth corps members, experts, and stakeholders, it highlighted drowning as a preventable public health issue, established by UN Resolution A/RES/75/273 in April 2021.
Lanre Mojola, Director General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to reducing drowning incidents.
“Drowning is a preventable tragedy that can occur anywhere water is present,” he stated.
“We are working tirelessly to promote water safety through education, advocacy, and direct community engagement. Every life is precious and irreplaceable.”
Mojola outlined plans to enforce safety regulations, enhance water body surveillance, and expand swimming and rescue training in vulnerable communities.
Hon. Rauf Age-Suleiman, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Special Duties, detailed legislative efforts to combat the crisis.
“One key initiative is the enforcement of the Lagos State Swimming Pool Regulations, first introduced in 2021 and reinforced in 2024 following a rise in pool-related incidents,” he said.
The law mandates certified lifeguards, emergency signage, first-aid kits, and incident management protocols for all swimming pool operators.
Adigun Ibrahim, President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), praised the initiative and emphasized youth education.
“Data shows that youths make up a significant percentage of drowning victims,” he noted.
“Today’s event is rightly focused, as 85% of the participants are young people. Educating them on water safety can significantly reduce these incidents.”
The event concluded with stakeholders pledging to intensify drowning prevention efforts through education, stricter regulations, and collaborative action, aiming to protect Lagos’ over 20 million residents from this preventable tragedy.
