The Lagos State Government has restated its resolve to combat the rising menace of illegal dredging and its devastating effects on coastal communities.
Speaking to staff of the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development (MWID) ahead of the maiden Waterfront Summit slated for September 12, 2025, Commissioner Dayo Bush-Alebiosu urged active community involvement in tackling the crisis.
He warned that residents who support or engage in illegal dredging are “engineering their own downfall,” as the practice accelerates erosion, worsens flooding, disrupts aquatic life, and destroys livelihoods dependent on fishing and water-based trade, particularly in areas such as Makoko.
Describing it as a “silent destroyer” of riverine communities, Alebiosu said the persistent nature of the problem has made it a major topic for deliberation at the upcoming summit.
“We cannot overemphasize the devastating impact these activities have on our lives and on posterity. This is why we are bringing the issue to the global stage, where stakeholders from across riverine states, government agencies, community leaders, environmental experts, and private sector partners will work together to find lasting solutions,” he stated.
According to him, the summit will provide a platform for dialogue, sharing of best practices, and formulation of actionable policies to protect Lagos’ waterfronts for present and future generations.
The commissioner also urged the public to register for the summit via the Ministry’s official social media platforms, stressing that collective action is essential to ending the scourge of illegal dredging.
