After protests, Lagos unveils $2m plan for Makoko regeneration
By Adeola Ogunrinde
The Lagos State Government has disclosed that it committed $2 million to the redevelopment of Makoko, the waterfront fishing community that has been at the centre of public debate following recent demolition exercises in parts of the settlement.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on eGIS, Olajide Babatunde, made this known on Monday during a press briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja. He explained that the funding represents the state’s counterpart contribution to ongoing redevelopment discussions involving international partners.
Babatunde said Makoko has become a focal point of public concern but stressed that the government’s actions must be viewed within the broader framework of urban renewal, public safety and environmental responsibility.
“Makoko is a fishing community made up of both land and water sections. Much of the attention is on the water segment, but before addressing Makoko directly, it is important to understand the thinking guiding this administration’s regeneration efforts,” he said.
Makoko, one of Lagos’ most recognisable informal settlements, has attracted national and international attention in recent weeks after state authorities demolished several waterfront structures. The government maintained that the affected buildings were unsafe and located beneath high-tension power lines.
The demolitions triggered protests by residents and civil society groups, who alleged forced evictions without adequate notice or resettlement. Demonstrators called for an immediate halt to the exercise, compensation for displaced families and greater clarity on redevelopment plans, while human rights organisations warned of the humanitarian impact.
Responding to the concerns, Babatunde insisted that the redevelopment plan was neither sudden nor punitive. He assured that the government would continue to engage communities, uphold safety standards and provide compensation where necessary. “Our approach is bottom-up, not top-down. We do not proceed without negotiation and stakeholder input,” he stated.
He added that the $2 million allocation is aimed at improving living conditions, sanitation, infrastructure and social amenities in Makoko through collaboration with development partners, including the United Nations. The adviser also noted that clearing structures under high-tension power lines is part of a statewide safety policy and not specific to Makoko.
