The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, has lifted the temporary suspension on dredging activities across the council area following fresh commitments by operators to adopt more responsible practices.
Epe Insights reports that the decision followed a series of constructive engagements between the local government, dredging operators and other key stakeholders aimed at addressing environmental concerns and improving infrastructure in communities affected by dredging activities.
The Chairman said the suspension was lifted after members of the Dredgers Association pledged to operate responsibly and support measures that protect host communities from the effects of uncontrolled dredging.
As part of the agreement reached during the meeting, the operators also committed to carrying out dredging activities at Omu Creek while working to improve road infrastructure around their operational areas.
The engagement formed part of the Council’s broader strategy to strike a balance between economic activities and environmental sustainability across Ibeju-Lekki.
Hon. Olowa emphasised that the welfare of residents and the protection of public infrastructure remain priorities for his administration. He noted that every decision taken by the Council is guided by the need to promote sustainable development.
The strategic meeting brought together representatives of the Dredgers Association and officials of the local government to discuss concerns relating to flooding, damaged infrastructure and environmental management.
During the discussions, stakeholders examined practical solutions that would reduce the negative impact of dredging operations while allowing legitimate business activities to continue under appropriate standards.
The meeting followed a recent joint inspection carried out by the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government and officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
The inspection covered major dredging locations, including Bogije, Lagasa and Awoyaya, where officials assessed the environmental and infrastructural impact of ongoing dredging activities.
According to the Council, the inspection provided first-hand information on the challenges facing affected communities and highlighted areas requiring immediate attention and long-term planning.
Hon. Olowa explained that the findings from the inspection helped shape subsequent discussions with dredging operators and informed the decisions reached during the stakeholder engagement.
The Council reiterated that responsible dredging remains essential to protecting the environment while supporting economic growth within the local government area.
The administration also stressed that operators are expected to comply fully with environmental regulations and other agreed operational standards aimed at safeguarding communities.
Improving road infrastructure around dredging sites formed another key outcome of the engagement. Residents have often expressed concerns about the condition of roads used by heavy-duty vehicles operating within the area.
The Council believes that better road maintenance will improve mobility, reduce inconvenience for residents and minimise the impact of commercial activities on surrounding communities.
Flood management also featured prominently during the discussions. Authorities noted that proper environmental practices can contribute significantly to reducing drainage challenges and improving water flow during the rainy season.
Hon. Olowa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with state agencies, private operators and community leaders to ensure sustainable environmental management across Ibeju-Lekki.
He encouraged continuous dialogue among stakeholders, noting that collaboration remains one of the most effective ways to address environmental issues while promoting responsible investment.
Residents welcomed the renewed engagement, expressing hope that the commitments made by dredging operators would translate into visible improvements in road conditions, environmental protection and community welfare.
The lifting of the temporary suspension marks a new phase in the relationship between the local government and dredging operators. With stronger commitments now in place, the Council says it will continue monitoring compliance to ensure that development, environmental protection and public interest remain closely aligned across Ibeju-Lekki.
