Yacoob Alebiosu, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, has expressed optimism regarding the partnership between the Lagos State Government and the Kingdom of the Netherlands in coastal zone management.

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 (MWID).

The visit was a continuation of earlier discussions focused on potential collaborations in managing the Lagos coastline.

The meeting explored opportunities for cooperation in water management, coastal protection, and sustainable development. Alebiosu emphasized the benefits that the Netherlands’ expertise in these areas would bring to Lagos’ waterfront infrastructure development.

Alebiosu hinted at ongoing conversations about the project and expressed excitement about the partnership’s prospects and its potential impact on coastal communities.

He anticipates further discussions and a fruitful collaboration.

Lagos State has been grappling with coastal erosion, particularly in communities such as Idotun, Origanrigan, Olomowewe, Itoke, and Asoroko in Ibeju Lekki. In a previous visit, the commissioner noted that the state is actively working to counter this issue with the introduction of new and cost-effective technology used by various countries, including some in Africa.

The commissioner highlighted the state’s efforts to support communities along the coastline, acknowledging that while erosion is a natural occurrence, mitigation measures are essential. He mentioned that reclamation and protection of these villages, although expensive, are priorities.

“We are looking at reclamation and also 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. However, we need to extend this from Alpha Beach to Ibeju Lekki, a 42km stretch requiring about 105 groins,” Alebiosu explained.

He further detailed the costs, stating, “More than a year ago, in February 2023, the cost of constructing a groin was about N12bn. 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.”

Alebiosu also noted that the state is considering replenishment methods used in the Netherlands for long-term solutions. He stressed the importance of collaboration with the federal government and private sector in protecting the coastline.

“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 assured.

The partnership between Lagos State and the Netherlands marks a significant step towards sustainable coastal management, promising enhanced protection and development for Lagos’ waterfronts.