Dredging Crisis Threatens Lagos Lagoon Ecosystem

In Lagos, Nigeria, extensive sand dredging is pushing the lagoon ecosystem towards collapse, significantly affecting local fisheries and coastal communities. Dredging operations, often unregulated, have eroded the lagoon bed by nearly six meters in critical areas, such as between Banana Island and the Third Mainland Bridge. This activity, primarily driven by the construction industry's demand for sharp sand, has led to severe ecological damage, impacting marine life and the livelihoods of those who depend on fishing.

The Guardian

Fasasi Adekunle, a fisher from Epe, highlights the drastic changes in fish populations, stating, “We used to cast our nets at 7pm and return before midday with enough tilapia... Now we go farther, spend more on fuel, and sometimes return almost empty-handed.” The lagoon, once a reliable source of sustenance, has become increasingly unpredictable, with fishers reporting a significant decline in their catches. Ajoke Orebiyi, a fishmonger, notes that her income has fallen by nearly half in five years due to dwindling fish stocks, forcing her to raise prices despite customer complaints.

The Guardian

The ecological ramifications of dredging extend beyond fish populations. Dr. Joseph Onoja, director general of the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, warns that unregulated dredging threatens not only fish but also endangered species, including sea turtles and migratory birds. The increased turbidity from dredging muddies the water, destroying breeding grounds and disrupting the food chain. Mark Ofua, a representative for Wild Africa, states that over 230 fish species in Nigeria's inland waters are already experiencing population declines due to these activities.

The Guardian

Despite existing regulations, enforcement remains weak, with many dredging operations occurring at night to evade detection. Local leaders' complicity in these activities complicates community resistance, as many fear repercussions for speaking out. A community organizer in Oto-Awori notes that traditional leaders often endorse dredging companies, making it difficult for ordinary citizens to voice their concerns. The economic incentives for sand mining are substantial, with local workers like Wasiu Olaniyi relying on dredging to support their families.

The Guardian

Environmental rights activists and conservationists advocate for comprehensive environmental monitoring and a moratorium on dredging in sensitive areas. Dr. Onoja emphasizes the need for sustainable development, stating, “Development is essential, but it must be sustainable so we don’t destroy the ecosystems that sustain us.” The Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure and Development and the National Inland Waterways Authority were contacted for comments but did not respond.

The Guardian

While many fishers report declining catches and increasing economic hardship, some sources suggest that broader environmental factors, such as climate change, also contribute to these challenges. The interplay between dredging and climate impacts remains an area requiring further investigation.

The Guardian

• “When you dredge sand at that scale without a proper assessment of its environmental impacts, it destroys or wipes out certain species, which harms fisheries and, ultimately, everyone who depends on them,” — Dr. Nnimmo Bassey, Health of Mother Earth Foundation

The Guardian

• “The water is no longer our friend,” — Fasasi Adekunle, Fisher

The Guardian

• “Dredging causes severe environmental destruction, affecting every level of the food chain, and the entire society ultimately feels the impact,” — Mark Ofua, Wild Africa

The Guardian

• “We’re seeing a breakdown in scientific assessment, EIA approvals, enforcement and even political commitment – and the government must be held responsible.” — Anonymous Environmental Advocate

The Guardian