The Lagos State Government has initiated a collaborative call to action aimed at addressing the growing crisis of illegal operators within the state’s waterways. In a recent stakeholders’ meeting led by Ekundayo Alebiosu, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, the government underscored the necessity for a united front in cleaning up the sector. This call comes in the wake of significant tensions arising between government authorities and the Dredgers Association of Nigeria, which were exacerbated by a Supreme Court ruling in January. The ruling asserted that the Federal Government holds exclusive authority over the regulation of inland waterways, encompassing shipping, licensing, and activities such as dredging. This judicial decision has restructured the operational landscape for dredgers in Lagos, necessitating a reevaluation of their roles and responsibilities.
Alebiosu emphasized that unlicensed dredging poses serious environmental threats and undermines legitimate businesses operating within the industry. He made it clear that the state has a responsibility to safeguard its lagoon ecosystem and the overall functionality of the waterways. Echoing this sentiment, he stressed the urgency of taking both proactive and reactive measures to address the challenges brought forth by illegal dredging activities. He warned that such illicit operations not only harm the environment but also endanger the viability of licensed dredgers’ businesses. Therefore, the commissioner called upon operators in the industry to unite against illegal practices and to work collaboratively with the government in safeguarding their interests.
Additionally, the government affirmed its commitment to enforcing compliance among dredging operators. Alebiosu assured the dredgers that the state would intensify its crackdown on violators of regulatory standards and that non-compliance would no longer be tolerated. The importance of transparent communication channels between the government and dredging companies was highlighted to foster accountability within the sector. He welcomed ideas and feedback from industry stakeholders as part of a collective effort to maintain the integrity of licensed operations and promote sustainable practices. This illustrates the government’s recognition of the importance of partnerships in addressing the sector’s challenges.
The response from the Dredgers Association of Nigeria, represented by its president, Batare Akpomejero, reflected solidarity with the government’s initiatives. The association’s leadership voiced their commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at countering illegal operators. Richard Ntan, the association’s Secretary General, further called on the government to take swift action against unlicensed dredgers, emphasizing the need for decisive interventions that do not succumb to external pressures or influence peddling. This collective stance illustrates a shared understanding of the necessity for both regulatory compliance and the protection of legitimate business interests within the dredging community.
Reinforcing these sentiments, Lolade Aina, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, reiterated the government’s dedication to addressing the challenges within the dredging sector. She underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and dredging operators to maintain the waterways’ integrity. Her remarks highlighted that the sustainability of the waterways is contingent on effective cooperation between public authorities and private operators, fostering a working environment that can withstand illicit operations. Both parties recognized that addressing the threats posed by illegal dredging is crucial for ensuring a future where legitimate operations can thrive.
In conclusion, the meeting represented a pivotal moment of renewed commitment from both the Lagos State Government and the Dredgers Association of Nigeria to collaborate on safeguarding the future of the dredging industry. The participants emphasized the necessity of compliance with regulatory standards to ensure a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to dredging activities. With a shared vision for a cleaner industry, enhanced communication, and decisive actions against illegal operators, both the government and the association are setting the stage for a more regulated and prosperous future for dredging in Lagos State.
