The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development (MWID), has initiated a renewed campaign to eradicate illegal settlements and structures encroaching upon the designated Okunde Bluewater Scheme site along the Lekki Coastal Road. This operation, spearheaded by Commissioner Ekundayo Alebiosu, signifies an ongoing commitment to reclaim government land and prevent the resurgence of unauthorized development in the area. The initiative aligns with the broader vision of transforming Lagos into a world-class mega city, with particular emphasis on optimizing waterfront areas for planned infrastructure projects and enhancing the overall urban landscape.
The recent enforcement action, conducted earlier this Friday, involved the demolition of newly constructed shanties and the removal of illegal occupants. This operation follows a larger-scale clearing effort carried out late last year, demonstrating the government’s resolve to maintain a continuous presence and prevent the re-establishment of informal settlements. Commissioner Alebiosu emphasized that the state government will not tolerate any further attempts to rebuild unauthorized structures on the site, citing concerns related to environmental hazards, security risks, and incompatibility with the Lagos State Mega City Master Plan.
The Okunde Bluewater Scheme, envisioned as a flagship development project, represents a key element of the state government’s strategic urban development agenda. This initiative aims to create a world-class waterfront destination encompassing a modern coastal road network and other complementary infrastructure, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents and contributing to the overall economic growth of the region. The government’s unwavering commitment to this project underscores its dedication to ensuring the long-term sustainability and planned development of critical waterfront areas.
The Lagos State government, under the leadership of the MWID, remains firmly committed to safeguarding public land and strategically leveraging waterfront resources for the benefit of all citizens. Commissioner Alebiosu reiterated that the progress achieved during the previous reclamation exercise in September of last year would be preserved, and stringent measures would be implemented to prevent any regression. The ministry’s proactive approach to monitoring and enforcement reflects a determination to protect the integrity of cleared sites and ensure that government land is utilized in accordance with approved development plans.
The MWID’s ongoing efforts underscore a broader strategy to transform Lagos State’s waterfront areas into valuable assets that contribute to the city’s economic prosperity, enhance its aesthetic appeal, and improve the overall quality of life for residents. By reclaiming government-owned land and implementing planned infrastructure projects, the ministry aims to create a more organized, secure, and sustainable urban environment. These initiatives align with the vision of establishing Lagos as a globally competitive mega city, capable of attracting investment, fostering innovation, and providing a high standard of living for its citizens.
The comprehensive approach adopted by the MWID emphasizes not only the removal of illegal structures but also the implementation of long-term strategies to prevent their recurrence. Sustained monitoring, periodic enforcement actions, and community engagement initiatives will be employed to ensure the continued success of these reclamation efforts. The ministry’s proactive stance demonstrates a commitment to preserving public land for designated purposes and upholding the principles of planned urban development, ultimately contributing to the realization of Lagos State’s ambitious vision for a world-class mega city.
