Atlantic Ocean may affect the Lekki – Epe Expressway if… - Stakeholders

By Abiodun OBA

As the Atlantic Ocean surge is rapidly destroying communities in the Eti-Osa/Lekki Corridor in Lagos State, some stakeholders have warned that urgent steps must be taken to preserve the Lekki – Epe Expressway.

The Director-General, Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), Joseph Onoja, gave the warning at a meeting on ocean encroachment between Lekki Estates Residents and Stakeholders Association (LERSA), Senator Wasiu Eshilokun, who represents Lagos Central Senatorial District; NCF, and Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Authority (LCDA).

During a presentation at the meeting, Onoja showed that over 130 meters of land have been encroached upon by the Atlantic Ocean in four years, and in 2024, a projection of another 50 meters will be gone if no immediate intervention is made.

Senator Eshilokun expressed deep concerns about the happenings and assured LERSA and other stakeholders impacted by the ocean surge that the matter will be top priority when the Senate resumes plenary sessions in September.

He also mandated the NCF and the LERSA Infrastructure Committee to come up with technically feasible solutions for review and possible implementation.

Among other stakeholders in attendance at the meeting were foremost environmental activist, Desmond Majekodunmi; and Vice-Chairman, Eti-Osa East LCDA, Azeez Ismail.