The Lagos State Government plans to raise over N3 trillion through public-private partnerships (PPPs) to tackle the growing threat of coastal erosion along its 180-kilometre shoreline.
Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Ekundayo Alebiosu, made this known during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing at the State Secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja.
Alebiosu said Lagos has started using groynes, rigid shoreline structures, to reduce erosion. However, the full-scale implementation across 180km demands heavy funding.
“Constructing a single groyne is expensive. Stretching it across our coastline will cost over N3 trillion. This figure shows why we need strategic collaboration,” he said.
To explore global solutions, Alebiosu led a high-level delegation to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The team included the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Lolade Aina.
He described the Netherlands as a model in coastal protection. Their approach mixes groynes, sand nourishment, and nature-based strategies, methods that could work for Lagos.
Alebiosu stressed that the erosion crisis goes beyond Lagos. He called it a national environmental and economic risk.
“This is not just Lagos’ problem. We need strong partnerships with the Federal Government and private investors to safeguard our coasts and communities,” he said.
The Commissioner linked the project to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision. He said it aligns with efforts to protect lives, secure investments, and unlock economic benefits across Lagos’ vast waterfronts.
“We must act fast. Coastal erosion puts entire communities at risk. Ignoring it could harm the environment, damage assets, and destroy livelihoods,” he warned.
Alebiosu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to working with both local and international partners to deliver lasting, climate-resilient solutions.
