Lagos State Government Suspends Reclamation Projects Over Environmental Concerns

The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources has suspended all reclamation projects across the state due to environmental concerns. The ministry cited the proliferation of reclamation activities on wetlands, floodplains, and lagoons without requisite Environmental Impact Assessment approvals and drainage clearance.

The affected areas include Parkview, Banana Island, Osborne, Ikoyi, Victoria Island Extension, Lekki, Ajah, Oworonshoki, Lagos Mainland, Ikorodu, Ojo, and Badagry.

The ministry noted that while reclamation may provide space for development, it poses significant environmental and social risks, including increased vulnerability to flooding, coastal erosion, and disruption of livelihoods.

All reclamation projects, whether approved or not, must cease immediately. Approved projects will undergo documentation and monitoring, while ongoing and intended projects will be subject to the Environmental Impact Assessment process.

Failure to comply within seven days will result in decommissioning of the reclaimed sites, excavation and removal of fill materials, and reconnection of blocked water channels. Those involved in the illegality will face arrest and prosecution.

The Lagos State Government is taking a firm stance to protect the state’s fragile ecosystem and ensure sustainable development.

The ministry’s directive aims to mitigate the adverse impacts of reclamation activities on the environment and the well-being of the people.