By Erewunmi Peace

The Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of all land reclamation projects across the state, citing environmental and safety concerns.

According to the directive, no ongoing or proposed reclamation work will continue until operators secure proper approvals, including Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) and drainage clearance permits.

Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, explained that the decision was taken to address flooding, wetland destruction, and other ecological risks linked to unregulated reclamation activities.

He added that project operators have been given a seven-day ultimatum to comply with environmental regulations, warning that non-compliance would lead to enforcement actions such as decommissioning or removal of illegal fills.

Areas most affected include Parkview, Banana Island, Osborne, Victoria Island Extension, Lekki, and Ajah, where several large reclamation projects are ongoing.

The state government stressed that while development is welcome, it must not come at the expense of environmental sustainability and public safety.