By Lukman Olabiyi
Lagos State Government has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to tackle the alarming rise in drowning incidents across the state.
This appeal was made by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, during an event marking the 2025 World Drowning Prevention Day, held in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos.
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The event was organized by the Lagos State Safety Commission and drew participation from students, youth groups, experts, and other key stakeholders.
World Drowning Prevention Day is commemorated globally on July 25. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in April 2021 through Resolution A/RES/75/273 to raise awareness of drowning as a preventable public health issue.
This year’s theme is: “Your Story Can Save a Life – Drowning Prevention Through Shared Experiences.”
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Sesan Ogundeko, Oyerinde emphasized the urgent need for coordinated efforts among emergency services, community leaders, NGOs, and the private sector.
“We must work together, government agencies, civil society, and citizens to implement effective safety measures, raise awareness, and ensure quick response to emergencies.
“Let us learn from this global call. The goal is universal: to save lives. Policymakers must adopt and support a national drowning prevention strategy,” he said.
Director General of the Lagos State Safety Commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, reiterated the agency’s commitment to enforcing safety regulations, improving surveillance of water bodies, and promoting swimming and rescue training in vulnerable communities.
“Drowning is a preventable tragedy that can occur anywhere water is present.
“We are working tirelessly to promote water safety through education, advocacy, and direct community engagement. Every life is precious and irreplaceable,”Mojola said.
Highlighting the legislative response to the issue, Hon. Rauf Age-Suleiman, Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Special Duties, outlined measures introduced by the state to combat drowning.
He noted that the legislative arm would continue supporting the executive in addressing 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.
“The law mandates strict safety standards for all swimming pool operators including the presence of certified lifeguards, emergency signage, first-aid kits, and formal protocols for incident management,”he stated.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Adigun Ibrahim, President of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), commended the initiative and stressed the need for continuous awareness efforts, particularly among young people.
“Data shows that youths make up a significant percentage of drowning victims.
“Today’s event is rightly focused, as 85% of the participants are young people. Educating them on water safety can significantly reduce these incidents,”he noted.
The event concluded with a renewed pledge from stakeholders to intensify efforts towards drowning prevention through education, regulation, and collaboration.
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