Lagos seeks stronger stakeholder synergy to curb alarming rise in drowning cases

The Lagos State Government has called for robust collaboration among stakeholders to address the growing incidence of drowning across the state.

Speaking at an event marking the 2025 World Drowning Prevention Day in Amuwo Odofin, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, stressed the need for collective action.

He was represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sesan Ogundeko.

The event, organised by the Lagos State Safety Commission, brought together students, youth corps members, experts, and various stakeholders in public safety.

World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25, was instituted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2021 through Resolution A/RES/75/273 to spotlight drowning as a preventable public health concern.

This year’s theme, “Your Story Can Save a Life – Drowning Prevention Through Shared Experiences,” encourages the use of personal narratives to promote safety awareness.

Oyerinde underscored the need for a coordinated approach involving emergency services, NGOs, community leaders, and the private sector.

“We must act collectively-government agencies, civil society groups, and the public to implement robust safety frameworks, promote awareness, and ensure swift response during emergencies,” he said.

“A national drowning prevention strategy is critical, and policymakers must throw their weight behind it.”

The Director-General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing safety regulations, enhancing surveillance around water bodies, and expanding access to swimming and rescue training in vulnerable areas.

“Drowning is a preventable tragedy that can happen anywhere water exists. We’re intensifying efforts around education, advocacy, and direct community engagement. Every life lost is one too many,” Mojola stated.

Providing a legislative perspective, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Special Duties, Hon. Rauf Age-Suleiman, said the Assembly was backing executive initiatives to reduce drowning.

He cited the Lagos State Swimming Pool Regulations, first enacted in 2021 and strengthened in 2024, as a key intervention.

“The law enforces strict safety protocols for swimming pool operators, including mandatory lifeguards, emergency signage, first aid kits, and clear incident response procedures,” he said.

Mr. Adigun Ibrahim, President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), lauded the event and urged sustained awareness efforts, particularly targeting young people who constitute a large proportion of drowning victims.

“Youths account for a significant share of drowning cases. With 85% of today’s attendees being young, this initiative is well-focused. Educating our youths on water safety can drastically cut down these avoidable deaths,” Ibrahim remarked.

The event ended with a joint commitment from all stakeholders to step up drowning prevention through education, policy enforcement, and active collaboration.