Waterfront Safety Non-Negotiable, Lagos Govt Insists

Waterfront Safety Non-Negotiable, Lagos Govt Insists
Public debates have continued around waterfront settlements such as Makoko and Oworonshoki
Alebiosu explained that some demolitions in Makoko, often attributed to the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, are actually carried out under broader urban regeneration programmes

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safety, sustainability and effective management of waterfront infrastructure, as it continues to roll out policies and interventions aimed at protecting lives and strengthening coastal oversight across the state, Eko Hot Blog reports.

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Speaking on recent developments affecting waterfront communities, the Honourable Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Dayo Bush Alebiosu, said the Ministry has recorded steady progress in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda of the Lagos State Government.

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According to the Commissioner, public debates have continued around waterfront settlements such as Makoko and Oworonshoki, with some stakeholders advocating continued habitation, while others have raised concerns about the dangers associated with living too close to critical infrastructure.

“The position of the Lagos State Government is clear. No one is saying residents must vacate Makoko entirely. However, maintaining a safe distance from power lines and strategic assets like the Third Mainland Bridge is non-negotiable, as continued habitation in such areas poses serious risks to lives and property,” Alebiosu stated.

Addressing the long-standing issues surrounding Oworonshoki and Makoko, the Commissioner noted that discussions around enforcement and demolitions have spanned more than 23 years, stressing that government actions are never arbitrary.

“There is nowhere in the world where government intervenes without prior notice. Engagement, communication and due process always precede enforcement actions,” he emphasised.

Waterfront Safety Non-Negotiable, Lagos Govt Insists

Citing an example from the Lekki axis, Alebiosu revealed that within the past year, three separate notices were served on an individual who repeatedly violated planning regulations.

“Even after the property was sealed, the seals were broken and new structures erected without approval. This clearly illustrates the enforcement challenges we continue to face,” he said.

Reiterating the guiding principle behind government interventions, the Commissioner explained that the role of government is to provide solutions, not create problems, noting that development often requires firm and sometimes difficult decisions.

“For a flower to bloom, it has to get wet a little. Progress often comes with tough but necessary actions taken in the overall public interest,” he added.

Clarifying public misconceptions, Alebiosu explained that some demolitions in Makoko, often attributed to the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, are actually carried out under broader urban regeneration programmes. He confirmed that the waterfront communities currently undergoing urban regeneration are Oworonshoki and Makoko.

In furtherance of efforts to improve safety and livelihoods, the Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry has introduced five jetties constructed with floating concrete pontoons. He noted that research shows the pontoons have a lifespan of between 30 and 50 years and require minimal maintenance, making them both durable and cost-effective.

He also confirmed that approval has been granted for the siting of a jetty in Oworonshoki, underscoring the State Government’s commitment to expanding water transportation infrastructure while ensuring safety, regulatory compliance and sustainability.

The Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development reaffirmed its dedication to inclusive stakeholder engagement, public safety and the orderly, long-term development of Lagos State’s waterfronts.