The Vice Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Isiaka Yusuf Olatunji, has led a distinguished delegation of council officials and respected traditional rulers to the Nigeria International Coastal Border Platform Stakeholders Meeting, a three-day summit held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
EpeInsights gathered that the event, which brought together representatives from Nigeria’s coastal states, focused on strengthening maritime border security, safeguarding vulnerable coastal communities, expanding the blue economy and addressing the urgent challenges posed by climate change.
Discussions also highlighted the implications of coastal management on national security and regional stability.
Declaring the summit open, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, emphasised the importance of unity of purpose and bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and neighbouring countries in securing shared maritime boundaries.
He cautioned that poorly managed border issues could escalate tensions in coastal communities and undermine security efforts if not addressed through treaties and established legal frameworks.
Speaking on behalf of the Ibeju-Lekki delegation, Hon. Olatunji commended the organisers for creating a platform to engage with pressing coastal development and security issues.
He pledged the council’s readiness to align with policies and initiatives that not only protect coastal territories but also harness the economic potential of maritime resources.
“Ibeju-Lekki is one of the most critical coastal areas in Lagos State. We recognise the urgency of safeguarding our communities while unlocking the economic benefits our waters can bring,” Olatunji said.
The Ibeju-Lekki delegation included the Onibeju of Ibeju, Oba Waliu Olasunkanmi Razaq Oguntolu; the Onimedu of Orimedu, Oba Toheeb Yisa Abidemi Oyedele; the Surveyor General of Lagos State; and other notable figures from both public and private sectors.
The summit concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to enhance coastal border management through coordinated policy action, security collaboration, and sustainable maritime development strategies.
