The Lagos State Government says residents and visitors will enjoy an upgraded waterfront experience this Detty December as part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the state’s tourism appeal.
The Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Alebiosu, stated this in a release issued on Sunday following the state’s tourism and hospitality stakeholders’ summit convened by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. The summit, themed “Unlocking the Potentials and Opportunities of Lagos Tourism: Collaboration and Partnership for a Greater Lagos,” examined strategies for boosting the state’s tourism competitiveness.
Alebiosu said the festive season would demonstrate Lagos’ readiness to deliver a modern and globally competitive tourism environment, noting that the state’s waterways remain one of its most valuable assets.
“Tourism is an experience, and December brings a global audience to our city. We must therefore present waterfronts that meet the quality people see in places like Scandinavia and the Palm Jumeirah,” he said.
He explained that reclamation and waterfront development require precision, strong regulation and long-term planning, adding that Lagos has tightened its frameworks to ensure projects align with international standards. He also expressed concern over the design of some waterfront communities that block or turn away the flow of water.
“It defeats the purpose when buildings face the road and fence off the water. A tourism-driven coastal city must embrace its coastline,” he said.
Alebiosu disclosed that the state has commenced the rehabilitation of jetties and installation of modern concrete pontoons, describing the upgrades as a significant departure from previous standards. He added that Lagos is awaiting final approval to begin the long-anticipated boardwalk project along the Wole Olateju waterfront, which he said has remained underutilised for years.
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The commissioner further confirmed the redesign of the Bariga jetty into a modern fish market as part of broader efforts to expand water transportation, trade and recreation. He said the state is in discussions with LAGFERRY and the Ministry of Transportation to address the siting of jetties in areas deemed unsuitable.
“We do not execute reclamation in isolation. We work with private proponents in line with global best practices,” he said.
With Detty December approaching, Alebiosu assured residents and tourists that they would soon feel the impact of the reforms.
“Our goal is to position Lagos as Africa’s most dynamic and welcoming festive destination. The changes happening along our waterfronts will speak for themselves this December,” he added.