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Economic development

Lagos State Government Prepares for Inaugural Waterfront Infrastructure Development Summit

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Lagos State Government is hosting the inaugural Waterfront Infrastructure Development Summit, scheduled to take place on Thursday, 11th September 2025, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event aims to address the mounting environmental pressures on the Lagos Lagoon and explore sustainable solutions for waterfront development. Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, emphasized the urgency of protecting the state's lagoons and waterfronts from the effects of coastal erosion, illegal dredging, and pollution.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Lagos Lagoon is under intense pressure from human-driven and climate-related factors, with coastal erosion, illegal dredging, and pollution threatening the environment and livelihoods of communities that depend on the ecosystem.
  • Coastal erosion has already swept away some communities, including Idotun Village in Ibeju-Lekki, displacing families and destroying livelihoods.
  • The state has initiated collaboration with the Netherlands to find lasting solutions to coastal and water management issues.
  • Approximately 10,625 cubic metres of sand are dredged daily in Lagos, and unchecked, these activities could destabilize the ecosystem and damage aquatic habitats.
  • The Ministry is conducting a comprehensive bathymetric and hydrographic survey to identify over-dredged and under-dredged areas.
  • The lagoon has vast economic and social potential, and if properly managed, it can become a hub for transportation, tourism, fisheries, and trade, creating jobs and boosting livelihoods for Lagosians.
  • The summit will convene experts across multiple fields to chart practical strategies to restore and sustainably manage the lagoon.

Statistics:

  • 10,625 cubic metres of sand are dredged daily in Lagos.
  • The summit is expected to attract over 500 international experts and stakeholders.
  • The Lagos Lagoon is a crucial component of the state's economy and social fabric.

Sources:

  • Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, press briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja.

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