COMMISSIONER DOWNPLAYS CONCERNS OVER SAND-FILLING AROUND MAKOKO END OF LAGOS LAGOON

The Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, has played down concerns over the likely impact on the environment from the ongoing sand-filling of the Makoko end of the Lagos Lagoon. Mr Wahab in a post on his X.com handle @tokunbo_wahab said it was important to rely on fact and verified information rather than speculations in addressing such concerns. The Commissioner while addressing a news conference at Alausa on Seasonal Climate Prediction and Socio-Economic Implications for Lagos State, recalled that the sand-filling project was approved before he assumed office. He said the project was under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Works, adding that he was aware that the necessary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was secured from the Ministry. The Environment and Water Resources Commission assured that findings indicate that there was no negative impact on the environment because of the sand-filling operation. However, he said there was need for continuous vigilance to ensure alignment for the future, just as he promised to ensure that the EIA files were retrieved for review, while the drainage department would be deployed to assess the stormwater discharge plan. He noted that environmental sustainability was a priority, adding that he would ensure that due process was followed to always double-check.