Lagos partners Dutch expertise to combat coastal erosion –Lagos Commissioner

By Kayode Olopade 

Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Yacoob Alebiosu, has revealed that the state government is partnering with the Netherlands to tackle the growing threat of coastal erosion along its 187-kilometer coastline.

Speaking during the ministerial press briefing held to mark the second anniversary of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term in office, Alebiosu emphasized the importance of learning from nations with proven expertise in managing water-related challenges. 

“It is said that hawks don’t take flying lessons from chickens. Who else do we look up to, if not those who have been there, done that, and succeeded? The Netherlands has a long-standing presence in Nigeria and a deep understanding of coastal dynamics, making them a natural partner for us,” he said.

The commissioner highlighted the severity of the coastal erosion problem in Lagos, citing the loss of several communities, including Akodo Ise, Itoke, Origanringan, villages, to the encroaching Atlantic Ocean. 

Harping on the threat coastal erosion ,Alebiosu recounted a conversation with a local traditional ruler who could no longer locate the primary school he once attended,  now submerged nearly a kilometer into the ocean due to erosion.

"Doing your best is not enough. You must first know what to do before putting in your best effort," he stated, underscoring the need for expert intervention.

Alebiosu led a delegation to the Netherlands that included the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, the heads of the engineering, dredging, and survey units. The team engaged with key Dutch stakeholders, including Invest International, Boskalis, and Van Oord — global leaders in maritime infrastructure and coastal protection.

"What we experienced and learned from the Netherlands was truly remarkable. We are immensely grateful for their warm reception and willingness to collaborate," Alebiosu said.

The partnership is expected to yield sustainable solutions to safeguard Lagos’ vulnerable coastline and protect coastal communities from further environmental degradation.