Lagos Halts All Reclamation Projects to Combat Environmental Risks.
The Lagos State Government has taken a decisive step to protect its fragile ecosystem by ordering the immediate suspension of all land reclamation projects. Citing grave concerns over the adverse environmental and social impacts of these activities, the state government has put a stop to all ongoing and planned reclamation, effective immediately.
The directive, announced by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, is a response to what the ministry described as a “proliferation of reclamation activities” in key areas of the state.
The Dangers of Unregulated Reclamation
Lagos, with its low-lying topography and extensive coastline, is particularly vulnerable to the consequences of unregulated land reclamation. The state government has highlighted a number of risks associated with these projects, including:
Increased Flooding: Indiscriminate reclamation on wetlands and floodplains can block natural water channels and reduce the capacity of lagoons to handle storm runoff, exacerbating the state’s chronic flooding issues.
Coastal Erosion: Unplanned reclamation can disrupt the natural flow of water and sediment, leading to accelerated erosion of the coastline and threatening existing infrastructure.
Loss of Biodiversity: Wetlands and lagoons are vital habitats for diverse plant and animal species. Reclamation destroys these ecosystems, leading to a loss of biodiversity and disrupting the livelihoods of communities, particularly fishermen.
Water Quality Degradation: The process of filling in water bodies with sand and other materials can impair water quality, posing a health risk to residents.
Wahab’s statement specifically noted that this dangerous trend has been observed in high-profile areas like Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki, and Ajah, where developers have often proceeded without the necessary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approvals and drainage clearances.
A Strong Stance for Sustainable Development
This suspension is a clear signal that the Lagos State Government is prioritizing environmental protection over unchecked real estate expansion.
While land reclamation can be a tool for creating space for much-needed housing and infrastructure, the government is emphasizing that it must be done with proper regulatory oversight and a consideration for long-term environmental sustainability.
The new directive requires that even projects that had previously received some form of approval must now be submitted for proper documentation and monitoring. The state has given a seven-day ultimatum for compliance, after which it has pledged to take swift action, including decommissioning illegal sites, reconnecting blocked water channels, and prosecuting offenders.
This move aligns with the state’s recent efforts to enforce environmental laws. In September 2024, the government sealed a residential estate for encroaching on a designated wetland, demonstrating its commitment to stopping illegal developments. The suspension of all reclamation projects marks a more comprehensive and forceful approach to protecting Lagos from ecological disaster.
It is a critical step towards ensuring that the state’s rapid urban growth does not come at the expense of the safety and well-being of its residents and the health of its environment.
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