The Lagos State Government has entered into a strategic partnership with the Netherlands to address the escalating challenge of coastal erosion along the state’s 187-kilometre shoreline.
Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Yacoob Alebiosu, made the announcement during a ministerial press briefing held to commemorate the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office. He stated that the collaboration would tap into the Netherlands’ renowned expertise in water management to develop sustainable solutions aimed at safeguarding Lagos’ coastal communities and infrastructure.
Alebiosu underscored the urgency of the issue, revealing that several communities, including Akodo Ise, Itoke, and Origanringan, had already been lost to the advancing Atlantic Ocean. He recounted a poignant conversation with a traditional ruler who could no longer locate his former primary school, now submerged nearly a kilometre into the ocean.
“The threat is real and deeply personal for many of our communities,” the Commissioner said. “It is said that hawks don’t take flying lessons from chickens. Who else do we look up to, if not those who have been there, done that, and succeeded?”
Highlighting the Netherlands’ longstanding relationship with Nigeria and its global reputation for coastal engineering, Alebiosu described the country as a natural partner in the state’s efforts to mitigate environmental degradation.
Also Read:Â Lagos to Enforce Ban on Single-Use Plastics from 1 July
Alebiosu led a high-level delegation to the Netherlands comprising the ministry’s Permanent Secretary and the heads of its engineering, dredging, and survey units. During the visit, the team held engagements with prominent Dutch stakeholders, including Invest International, Boskalis, and Van Oord global leaders in maritime infrastructure and coastal protection.
“What we experienced and learned from the Netherlands was truly remarkable,” the Commissioner said. “We are immensely grateful for their warm reception and willingness to collaborate.”
The partnership is expected to yield practical, long-term solutions that will protect Lagos’ fragile coastline, mitigate environmental risks, and enhance the resilience of coastal communities.
