The Lagos State Government has announced the suspension of all ongoing wetlands reclamation projects across the state, citing growing concerns over environmental degradation, flooding, and loss of biodiversity.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this on Thursday during a press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja. He explained that the decision followed recommendations from environmental experts, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders alarmed by the pace of land reclamation in fragile ecological zones.
“Wetlands serve as natural buffers against flooding, protect water quality, and provide critical habitats for wildlife. Unchecked reclamation poses serious risks to the environment, public safety, and long-term sustainability of our communities,” Wahab said.
According to him, the suspension will allow the state to carry out a comprehensive environmental impact assessment (EIA) on ongoing and proposed reclamation activities. He added that developers found to have violated approval procedures would face sanctions, including possible revocation of permits.
The commissioner assured Lagosians that the government remains committed to balancing development with environmental protection, stressing that “sustainable urban growth cannot come at the cost of destroying the natural ecosystems that protect us.”
Residents of flood-prone communities in Lekki, Ajah, and Ikorodu have long expressed worry that wetlands destruction has worsened seasonal flooding, with experts warning that Lagos, a coastal city already vulnerable to climate change, could face dire consequences if reclamation continues unchecked.
Environmental groups have welcomed the government’s move, describing it as a positive step toward safeguarding the state’s ecological heritage. However, they urged authorities to enforce the suspension strictly and not bow to pressure from powerful developers.
The Lagos State Government said it will release fresh guidelines on wetlands management in the coming months to ensure that future projects meet global best practices in environmental sustainability.
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