The Lagos State Government has announced the immediate suspension of all land reclamation projects across the state, with immediate effect .
This decision, announced by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, aims to mitigate environmental and social risks associated with unchecked land reclamation activities.
Wahab highlighted the potential consequences of unregulated land reclamation, including increased flooding, coastal erosion, loss of wetlands and biodiversity, and disruption of livelihoods, particularly fishing.
“While reclamation may create space for housing and infrastructure, it also comes with severe risks,” he stated.
Some of the high-profile areas where these activities are taking place include Parkview, Banana Island, Osborne in Ikoyi, Victoria Island Extension, Lekki, Ajah, Oworonshoki, Lagos Mainland, Ikorodu, Ojo, and Badagry.
The commissioner emphasized that all projects, whether approved or not, must undergo fresh documentation and monitoring.
The ministry has issued a seven-day compliance deadline, warning that failure to comply will result in decommissioning of reclaimed sites, reopening of blocked water channels, and arrest and prosecution of violators.
“Every ongoing or planned reclamation must pass through the Environmental Impact Assessment process and obtain approval and drainage clearance from the ministry,” Wahab added.
The Lagos State Government’s decision demonstrates its commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring sustainable development.
The government has vowed to take strict action against developers who fail to comply with the directive, including dismantling illegal sites and prosecuting defaulters.
