The Lagos State Government and the Dredgers Association of Nigeria have resolved their longstanding conflict, agreeing to collaborate on improving and regulating the dredging industry. This was concluded at a stakeholders’ meeting led by Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, in Alausa, Ikeja.
The meeting followed months of tension, particularly after the Supreme Court’s ruling in January that placed control of waterways under the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), leading to friction between the state and dredgers.
Alebiosu emphasized the need for a strong partnership and cracking down on illegal operators, noting that protecting the lagoon and maintaining proper industry standards are top priorities. He reassured the association that non-compliant operators would be dealt with and invited suggestions to improve the sector.
In response, Dredgers Association President Batare Akpomejero expressed their commitment to working with the government, while Secretary General Richard Ntan urged the authorities to take firm action against illegal dredgers. The meeting marked a step forward in resolving the industry’s regulatory challenges.
