On September 11, 2025, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made a strong commitment to protect the Lagos Lagoon from degradation. He emphasized that safeguarding the lagoon is essential and should not be overlooked.
This pledge came during the first-ever Lagos State Waterfront Summit held at Eko Hotels and Suites, titled “Pressure on the Lagoon: The Lagos Experience.” Sanwo-Olu pointed out that millions rely on the lagoon for their livelihoods, making it a critical part of the state’s economy and culture. However, he stressed that the lagoon faces numerous threats, including illegal dredging, land reclamation, and pollution.
Recent studies indicate that over 80% of Lagos’s coastline has eroded in just 50 years. If this trend continues unchecked, the future of Lagos’s waterfront may become uninhabitable, diminishing its beauty and utility. The governor recognized alarming signs of flooding during his visits to coastal communities like Ibeshe and Ilashe, where homes and ancestral lands are increasingly at risk.
To combat these issues, Sanwo-Olu announced the creation of a comprehensive plan for waterfront development. This includes infrastructure improvements, environmental protection, and boosting eco-tourism. He identified renewable energy and public-private partnerships as potential avenues for sustainable growth. “Those profiting from illegal activities are putting future generations at risk,” the governor warned.
Dr. Muiz Banire, a former Environment Commissioner, echoed these concerns. He described the lagoon as a “true companion” to the people of Lagos, vital for families and industries alike. According to Banire, failures in law enforcement and community engagement threaten the lagoon’s health. He urged for stronger regulations, better cooperation among government agencies, and local community involvement to restore the lagoon’s vitality.
Dayo Bush-Alebioshu, the state’s Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, highlighted that the lagoon is not just a body of water—it’s intertwined with Lagos’s culture and identity. He noted that pollution and climate change are major pressures, and urged participants at the summit to innovate and collaborate in efforts to protect the lagoon’s future.
This urgent call to action reflects a growing recognition of the need for environmental stewardship in coastal cities. As urbanization continues to encroach on natural resources, the lessons learned from the plight of the Lagos Lagoon may serve as a crucial blueprint for other regions grappling with similar challenges.
If Lagos can mobilize its communities and leverage partnerships for sustainable initiatives, the lagoon may not only survive but thrive, benefiting future generations.
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Degradation,Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu,Lagos Lagoon,Lagos State Government
