The Lagos State Government has raised fresh concerns over the scale of illegal dredging and coastal erosion threatening its lagoon and waterfront communities.
Officials estimate that more than 10,000 cubic metres of sand are being removed daily, with serious implications for the environment and local livelihoods. Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Alebiosu, described the situation as a looming ecological crisis requiring urgent intervention.
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Authorities say the Ibeshe area is already heavily affected, while some coastal settlements, including Idotun Village in Ibeju-Lekki, have been completely washed away. Families have lost homes and sources of income, as the government intensifies its clampdown on unlicensed dredgers blamed for worsening the problem.
In response, Lagos has begun working with the Netherlands to develop long-term coastal management solutions. The state will also host its maiden Waterfront Summit in September, aimed at charting practical strategies for sustainable protection.
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