In a sweeping enforcement drive aimed at protecting Lagos State’s coastal environment, the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development (MWID) has issued more than 100 contravention notices and 10 stop-work orders over illegal land reclamation activities in the Ikota area of Lekki.
The crackdown, led by Commissioner Ekundayo Alebiosu during a routine inspection along the Ikota Creek and Eleganza area, targeted structures and developments that encroached on natural waterways and violated waterfront setback regulations.
The commissioner expressed deep concern over what he described as alarming and unauthorized reclamation activities, including deliberate attempts to alter the natural flow of the waterway. He emphasized that Lagos’ waterfronts are critical ecological zones and not to be treated as free-for-all or dumping grounds.
“Our waterfronts are natural buffers that must be preserved—not only for our present needs but also for future generations,” Alebiosu stated. “Any form of illegal encroachment, planned or ongoing, will be met with stiff resistance and legal consequences.”
Alebiosu directed an immediate halt to all unauthorized reclamation and warned that such activities pose serious long-term risks to both the environment and infrastructure of nearby communities.
He reiterated MWID’s commitment to sustainable waterfront management and stressed that the Ministry will continue enforcing compliance across the state without fear or favour.
“We have a duty to protect Lagos’ coastal assets. Our efforts are aligned with the State Government’s THEMES Plus Development Agenda, which seeks to create a sustainable and livable environment for all residents,” he said.
The commissioner also called on property developers and residents to obtain proper approvals and strictly adhere to waterfront setback rules, encouraging them to play their part in safeguarding the state’s fragile ecosystems.
