Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat led an executive council team on a working tour of coastal communities today.
The visit focused on Inagbe, Ibeshe, Kaare, and nearby areas to evaluate growing encroachments and ongoing developments along the shoreline.
The team highlighted the importance of protecting Lagos’ coastal zones as key natural assets. Unchecked building activities threaten the environment, endanger lives, and damage property. Officials stressed their commitment to enforcing environmental laws and preserving the coastal ecosystem.
This inspection forms part of a larger plan to secure Lagos’ waterfronts. It aims to maintain biodiversity while supporting sustainable tourism and recreation.
Governor Sanwo-Olu shared details of the tour on X, noting visits to Ibeshe, Inagbe, Ilashe, and other spots. He observed numerous unapproved structures and clear breaches of planning rules. “Too many buildings have been constructed without approval, in breach of planning laws and safety standards,” he posted. “These actions put lives at risk and undermine the long-term value of our coastline.”
The governor announced that the Ministry of Physical Planning and the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) will conduct a full enumeration soon. After that, the state will make firm but fair decisions, including regularizing eligible structures, protecting local residents, and restoring order.
During the visit, Sanwo-Olu also inspected a 30MVA power station at Ilashe. The facility has been handed over to EKO Disco and will soon provide electricity to riverine homes. This step is expected to boost economic growth and tourism in the area.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized the coastline’s value: “The Lagos coastline is one of our greatest assets and we owe it to future generations to safeguard it. We will correct past wrongs and work with communities to build a future that is safe, inclusive, and prosperous.”
The state government urges residents and developers to comply with regulations to avoid risks and support long-term development.
