The Lagos State Government has defended the ongoing land reclamation project at the Makoko waterfront near the Third Mainland Bridge, stating that all necessary approvals were obtained from both the state and federal governments before construction began.
The Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Alebiosu, explained that the project, located around the Ebute Meta/Lagos Island interchange, is being executed by a private developer that fulfilled all legal and regulatory requirements before commencing work.
He noted that concerns were initially raised by the Federal Ministry of Works over fears that dredging activities close to the Third Mainland Bridge could affect the bridge’s structural stability. However, further investigations revealed that sand was being pumped from locations several kilometres away rather than being dredged near the bridge.
According to the commissioner, the project also underwent an Environmental Impact Assessment and received the required drainage approvals before work was approved.
Alebiosu disclosed that the Lagos State Government temporarily suspended the project for about a year to allow the developer obtain additional clearance from the Federal Ministry of Works. Following a technical review by relevant government agencies, the project was cleared to continue.
He stressed that the reclamation project cannot be described as illegal since it had satisfied all statutory requirements and received the necessary approvals.
The commissioner also reiterated the state’s commitment to tackling illegal dredging across Lagos waterways, revealing that no new dredging permits have been issued by his ministry during his tenure. He explained that recent surveys show that sand deposits are gradually being depleted, forcing operators to source materials from much farther offshore than before.
He urged residents of Ikorodu and other waterfront communities not to support illegal dredging activities, warning that continued environmental violations could have serious long-term ecological consequences.
The clarification comes amid ongoing public discussions over redevelopment efforts in Makoko, where previous demolition exercises sparked criticism from residents and civil society groups. While affected communities have accused the government of carrying out demolitions without adequate consultation or compensation, the state government has maintained that its actions were necessary to protect critical infrastructure, enforce planning regulations and ensure public safety.
Despite the controversy surrounding redevelopment in the area, the Lagos State Government insists the current reclamation project was properly assessed, approved and cleared by all relevant authorities before work resumed.
