The Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Yacoob Alebiosu, has expressed optimism regarding the partnership between the state and the Kingdom of the Netherlands in coastal zone management.
The commissioner revealed the plans of the ministry to deploy the latest technologies in tackling coastal erosion.
A statement on Sunday noted that this was shared when Alebiosu hosted a business delegation from the Netherlands, led by Consular General Michel Deelen, at the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development.
The meeting explored opportunities for cooperation in water management, coastal protection, and sustainable development.
Lagos grapples with coastal erosion, particularly in communities such as Idotun, Origanrigan, Olomowewe, Itoke, and Asoroko in Ibeju Lekki. The commissioner noted that the state was actively working to counter the issue with the introduction of cost-effective technology.
“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 said.
“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.
“We need to extend this from Alpha Beach to Ibeju Lekki, a 42km stretch requiring about 105 groins”, the commissioner added.
He further detailed the costs, stating, “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 are significant. Nevertheless, we must persist in our efforts to protect the ancestral land and livelihoods of the affected communities”.
