The Lagos State Government has set a boundary for coastal living, declaring that while it is not seeking the total displacement of historic waterfront communities, it will no longer tolerate habitation that endangers lives or threatens critical infrastructure.
The Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Alebiosu, clarified the state’s position on Wednesday, amid ongoing debates regarding urban regeneration in Makoko and Oworonshoki.
Addressing the tension between traditional occupation and public safety, Alebiosu emphasised that proximity to high-tension power lines and major transit arteries is a “ticking time bomb.”
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“The position of Lagos State Government is clear. No one is saying people must leave Makoko entirely,” the commissioner stated.
“However, maintaining a safe distance from power lines and bridges like the Third Mainland Bridge is non-negotiable. Habitation in such locations poses serious risks to lives and property.”
Alebiosu revealed that current enforcement actions are part of a broader Urban Regeneration Programme.
He said this strategy aims to reclaim the 50-meter right-of-way around the bridge corridor, where shanties have reportedly begun “extending towards the middle” of the infrastructure.
Alebiosu dismissed claims of “arbitrary” demolitions, noting that the issues in Oworonshoki and Makoko have been documented for over 23 years.
The commissioner highlighted a pattern of “persistent violations,” citing a recent case in Lekki where an individual broke government seals three times to rebuild unapproved structures.
He said the enforcement protocol begins with the service of multiple statutory notices before any action is taken.
The commissioner noted that it also involves continuous engagement with community leaders to ensure residents are properly informed.
Additionally, landlords in some areas, including Oko-Cole, have been granted a two-month window to regularise building approvals, rather than face immediate demolition.
“For a flower to bloom, it has to get wet a little,” Alebiosu remarked, defending the “tough but necessary” actions taken under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda.
While enforcing safety, he added they’re also investing in sustainable coastal growth.
Lagos has introduced a new generation of floating concrete pontoon jetties—durable platforms with a 30 to 50-year lifespan.
According to the commissioner, the government has approved the construction of a new terminal at the Oworonshoki Jetty to strengthen water transportation infrastructure.
Research indicates that the concrete pontoons to be used will require minimal maintenance, as they are more cost-effective and more resilient than traditional wooden or metal docks.
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The jetties are also being designed for seamless intermodal integration with the upcoming Omi Eko Project, which will feature electric ferries and digital ticketing systems.
He reaffirmed that the ministry’s role is to find solutions that balance the state’s economic “Greater Lagos” vision with the fundamental need to protect the lives of those living on the water’s edge.
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