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To boost Lagos' Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the State Government has given the green light for the establishment of four new islands to attract investments to the state.
The decision to approve these islands was made after a thorough assessment of their economic benefits and ecological impacts on the shorelines of Lagos. Along with the Aishasul island, the government has also received proposals from four investors who are interested in setting up islands to make the state a preferred destination for investment.
As these proposals are being considered, the government has pledged to strengthen regulations to prevent any negative ecological impact on the Lagos waterfront.
The Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, announced these developments in Ikeja while presenting the ministry's accomplishments since taking office.
In order to assist the investors in connecting their islands, the governor has approved the construction of 13 jetties to facilitate water transportation to these locations.
These new jetties are in addition to the seven jetties that were commissioned and handed over to Lagos State Waterways (LASWA) by the Governor at the same time last year.
The Commissioner also revealed that these jetties will create more opportunities for reclaiming land to develop waterfront projects and improve connectivity in coastal areas.
He emphasized that the jetties will also help in inspecting existing projects, preventing the creation of slums, promoting eco-friendly practices, enhancing the beauty of waterfront projects, and maintaining the integrity of the Lagos master plan.
The Ministry has also taken action against illegal shoreline extensions and non-compliant developments, issuing stop work orders and making six arrests, with the perpetrators being handed over for prosecution in accordance with the law.
The Ministry continues to actively inspect various waterfront activities to ensure compliance with regulations.
