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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Yacoob Alebiosu, has expressed optimism about a new partnership between the state and the Kingdom of the Netherlands in managing coastal zones.
The announcement came during a visit from a Dutch business delegation, led by Consular General Michel Deelen, to the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development.
The visit continued previous discussions on potential collaborations in managing Lagos’ coastline. The meeting focused on exploring opportunities in water management, coastal protection, and sustainable development. Alebiosu emphasised the significant benefits that the Netherlands’ expertise could bring to Lagos’ waterfront infrastructure development.
Highlighting the ongoing conversations, Alebiosu expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s prospects and its potential impact on coastal communities. He looks forward to further discussions and a fruitful collaboration.
Lagos State faces serious challenges with coastal erosion, particularly in communities such as Idotun, Origanrigan, Olomowewe, Itoke, and Asoroko in Ibeju Lekki. The commissioner noted that the state is actively countering this issue by introducing new, cost-effective technology used by various countries, including some in Africa.
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Alebiosu emphasised the importance of reclamation and protection efforts along the coastline, acknowledging that while erosion is natural, mitigation measures are crucial.
He mentioned the state’s efforts to protect coastal villages, despite the high costs involved.
“We are looking at reclamation and protecting what is left of these villages, though it is very expensive. We have some groins around Okunde, known as the Great Wall, and aim to block these groins to relieve pressure in that area. However, we need to extend this from Alpha Beach to Ibeju Lekki, a 42km stretch requiring about 105 groins,” Alebiosu explained.
He further detailed the costs, stating, “More than a year ago, in February 2023, the cost of constructing a groin was about N12bn. The total coastline in Lagos is approximately 180km, which is substantial. If we are to address the entire stretch, the costs are significant. Nevertheless, we must persist in our efforts to protect the ancestral land and livelihoods of the affected communities.”Alebiosu also noted that the state is considering replenishment methods used in the Netherlands for long-term solutions. He stressed the importance of collaboration with the federal government and private sector in protecting the coastline.”We have identified some African countries that have tackled similar challenges using better and cheaper groin technology. We are studying these methods and want to be thoroughly convinced before committing.
We assure the affected communities that the solution is near and ask for their patience,” Alebiosu assured.
