The Lagos State Government and the Dredgers Association of Nigeria have successfully resolved their previous conflicts, agreeing to collaborate in order to enhance and regulate the dredging industry in the state. This agreement was made during a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, at Alausa, Ikeja.
The meeting is part of a series aimed at tackling the issues that have strained the relationship between the government and the dredgers.
Tensions had intensified following a Supreme Court ruling in January that placed control of waterways under the jurisdiction of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), which led to confrontations between the state government and dredging operators.
During the meeting, Alebiosu emphasized the need for a robust partnership between the government and dredgers, underlining the necessity of eliminating unscrupulous elements within the sector. He acknowledged that the ministry had secured certain approvals but highlighted the importance of transparency and cooperation with the dredgers.
“We are responsible for protecting the lagoon, and it’s crucial that everything operates efficiently. We cannot remain passive while conditions worsen; we need to act both proactively and reactively.
“Illegal operators pose a threat to your businesses as well, so you must organize effectively to tackle this issue,” Alebiosu asserted.
He assured the dredgers that the government would not tolerate imposters or illegal operators, warning that it would no longer be business as usual for those who disregard regulations. Alebiosu further stated, “We welcome suggestions, support, and advice. It’s vital that we all collaborate to advance government initiatives and keep the industry clean.”
In response, the President of the Dredgers Association, Batare Akpomejero, expressed the association’s readiness to work with the government, acknowledging the ministry’s regulatory role. Akpomejero assured the commissioner of their commitment to fostering a positive working relationship and urged the government to provide the necessary services to enhance their operations.
The association’s Secretary General, Richard Ntan, called on the government to take strong action against illegal operators and advised the commissioner to disregard influence peddlers. He commended the commissioner for his efforts in resolving the long-standing issues between the dredgers and the government.
The Permanent Secretary, Lolade Aina, thanked the dredgers for their cooperation and reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing their challenges.
