Illegal Dredging in Lagos: A Threat to the Aquatic Environment
The Lagos State Government has raised concerns over the growing threat to the state’s aquatic ecosystem due to illegal dredging activities.
Officials warned that unauthorized sand mining and dredging operations are causing severe environmental degradation, endangering marine life, and increasing the risk of flooding in coastal communities.
The Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Oluwatoyin Fayinka, highlighted the negative impacts during a recent press briefing.
He explained that the destruction of natural water channels and wetlands by illegal dredging disrupts ecosystems, reduces biodiversity, and contributes to soil erosion.
“Illegal dredging not only jeopardizes the environment but also endangers livelihoods dependent on the aquatic ecosystem. We must act swiftly to address this menace,” Fayinka said.
The government announced plans to intensify monitoring and enforcement by partnering with law enforcement agencies to crack down on unlicensed operators.
Legal actions, including heavy fines and equipment seizures, are being considered for violators.
Environmentalists and stakeholders have called for more public awareness campaigns on the importance of preserving aquatic ecosystems and stricter penalties to deter offenders.
The state government has also urged residents to report illegal activities to help protect Lagos’s fragile water bodies.