The Lagos State Government and the Dredgers Association of Nigeria have successfully resolved their ongoing conflict, agreeing to collaborate on improving and regulating the dredging industry in the state. This resolution was reached during a stakeholders’ meeting led by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, held in Alausa, Ikeja.
The meeting was part of a series aimed at addressing concerns that had strained the relationship between the government and dredging operators. Tensions had escalated, particularly following a January Supreme Court ruling that placed control of waterways under the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), leading to confrontations between the state government and dredgers.
During the meeting, Alebiosu emphasized the importance of building a strong partnership between the government and dredging operators, highlighting the need to eliminate bad actors within the sector. He acknowledged that the ministry had received certain approvals but underscored the necessity of transparency and collaboration with dredgers.
“We have a duty to protect the lagoon, and it’s essential that everything functions properly. We cannot stand by while things deteriorate; we need to act both proactively and reactively. Illegal operators threaten your business as well, so you must organize better to address this issue,” Alebiosu stated.
He assured the dredgers that the government would not tolerate impostors or illegal operators, warning that compliance with regulations would be strictly enforced.
Alebiosu further expressed, “We are open to suggestions, support, and advice. It’s vital that we all work together to advance government business and keep the industry clean.”
In response, Batare Akpomejero, President of the Dredgers Association, conveyed the group’s willingness to cooperate with the government and appreciated the ministry’s regulatory role. He assured the commissioner of the association’s commitment to fostering a positive working relationship and called on the government to provide essential services to enhance their operations.
The association’s Secretary General, Richard Ntan, urged the government to take decisive action against illegal operators and advised the commissioner to disregard influence peddlers. He praised Alebiosu for his efforts in resolving the longstanding conflict between dredgers and the government.
The Permanent Secretary, Lolade Aina, thanked the dredgers for their cooperation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing their challenges.