By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to stage the first-ever Waterfront Infrastructure Development Summit, an ambitious initiative aimed at safeguarding water bodies, promoting responsible use of waterways, and unlocking their vast socio-economic value.
Themed “Pressure on the Lagoon: The Lagos Experience,” the summit will take place on Thursday, 11 September 2025, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, and is expected to draw over 500 global experts in waterfront and urban development.
Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon Dayo Bush Alebiosu, announced the summit on Thursday at a press briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alausa, Ikeja.
He described the upcoming event as one that “will redefine the future of urban waterfronts globally and mark a pivotal moment in the evolution of waterfront development, offering unparalleled opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and sustainable growth.”
Alebiosu noted that as urbanisation accelerates worldwide, well-planned and sustainably managed waterfronts have become increasingly critical, both as economic powerhouses and as essential contributors to the quality of life in cities.
According to him, the summit will gather industry leaders, policymakers, and community representatives to create forward-thinking strategies that balance environmental stewardship with economic advancement.
Sessions will feature global best practices in waterfront design, strategies that integrate growth with ecological protection, and technological innovations, including smart infrastructure for water-related projects. The event will also serve as a hub for investors and community stakeholders to exchange ideas, secure opportunities, and strengthen public engagement, ensuring projects meet the needs of local residents.
“The summit is a call to action, bringing together government officials, private sector leaders, urban planners, and communities to initiate a new era of sustainable waterfront initiatives that can become models for cities worldwide,” Alebiosu said.
He further cautioned that the Lagos Lagoon is under severe strain from unchecked human activity and climate-related threats, calling on stakeholders to partner with government in mitigating risks and safeguarding the environment for future generations.
