Lagos, Netherlands partner on coastal Zone management

Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development Yacoob Alebiosu is hopeful that the partnership with the Kingdom of the Netherlands would boost coastal zone management in Lagos.

Alebiosu hosted a business delegation from the Netherlands, led by Consular-General Michel Deelen, in his office at the weekend. The visit was a continuation of earlier discussions focused on potential collaborations in managing the Lagos coastline. The meeting explored opportunities for cooperation in water management, coastal protection and sustainable development.

Lagos has been grappling with coastal erosion, particularly in communities such as Idotun, Origanrigan, Olomowewe, Itoke, and Asoroko in Ibeju Lekki. In a previous visit, the commissioner said the state is actively working to counter this challenges with the introduction of new and cost-effective technology in other countries, including some in Africa.

The commissioner highlighted efforts to support communities along the coastline, acknowledging that while erosion is a natural occurrence, mitigation measures are essential. According to him, reclamation and protection of these villages, though expensive, are priorities.

He said: “We are looking at reclamation and also protecting what is left of these villages, though 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.

“More than a year ago, in February 2023, the cost of constructing a groin was about N12 billion. The total coastline in Lagos is approximately 180km, which is substantial. If we are to address the entire stretch, the costs will be significant. Nevertheless, we must persist in our efforts to protect the ancestral land and livelihoods of the affected communities.”

Alebiosu also said 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.

He added: “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.”