The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development has reiterated its commitment in tackling growing menace of illegal dredging and its devastating impact on the Communities across the State.
Speaking to members of staff recently at the Ministry ahead of the 1st Waterfront Summit , scheduled to take place on the 12th September 2025 , the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush – Alebiosu called for active Community Involvement in confronting the crisis.
He warned that residents who encourage or participate in the illegal dredging are engineering their own downfall as the environmental, social, and economic consequences will have on their lives and that of the entire populace.
Alebiosu described illegal dredging as a “silent destroyer” of the coastal and riverine communities, noting that accelerates erosion, worsen flooding, disrupts aquatic life, and destroys livelihoods dependent on fishing and water based commerce especially in areas like Makoko. He stressed that the persistent nature of this problem is what has made it one of the major topics for deliberation at the upcoming Summit.
“We cannot over emphasise the devastating impact these activities could have on our daily lives and on prosperity. This is why we have made it a point of necessity to bring it to global stage where all stakeholders from Reverine States in Nigeria, government agencies to Community leaders, environmental experts, and private sector partners will deliberate and chat a lasting solution,” Alebiosu said.
The Commissioner emphasised that the Summit would serve as a collaborative platform to foster dialogue, share best practices, and develop actionable policies that safeguard Lagos Waterfront for present and future generations.
The Honourable Commissioner concluded by urging members of the public to register and participate in the Summit through the official links available on all the Ministry’s Social Media Platforms, noting that collective action is key to ending the scourge of illegal dredging.
