Business
We’ll rebuild Kosofe for economic value, says commissioner
The Commissioner, Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Hon. Dayo Bush Alebiosu, has described recent developments in parts of Kosofe Local Government Area, particularly Oworonshoki, as a deliberate and strategic urban regeneration initiative, aimed at restoring safety, economic value, and sustainable development to the waterfront communities.
Speaking during a New Year media briefing with journalists at his residence in Lagos, Alebiosu recalled that Oworonshoki was once plagued by persistent violence and insecurity, noting that there was a time residents could not move freely from as early as 7pm due to frequent unrest and criminal activities.
He explained that the intervention of government agencies, including the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), followed due process, with notices duly served where necessary. The Honourable Commissioner emphasized his deep personal connection to Kosofe, describing it as his constituency and hometown by heritage.
I understand the pain of the people because this is home to me. However, Oworonshoki is specially located, surrounded by water, and there is no reason why we cannot replicate the level of development we see on the Island right here,” he stated.
Alebiosu reiterated that he has never been a proponent of conventional poverty alleviation schemes that focus on the distribution of tools such as clippers and blending machines, stressing instead the importance of long-term, value-driven urban development.
He recounted historical struggles over land regularisation in Kosofe, noting that areas once under government acquisition were regularised decades ago for minimal fees, which today have appreciated to significant economic value.
“That is the power of structured development. What we are doing now is laying a foundation for future prosperity,” he said.
The Commissioner clarified that the demolition activities in Oworonshoki do not fall under the Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, but rather under the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development.
“I am not responsible for demolitions in Oworonshoki. That is not within my purview. However, I have intervened in my personal capacity,” he explained.
He disclosed that he was present at the Lagos State House of Assembly when affected residents presented their case and further revealed that he, alongside friends, has established a foundation to assist in financing the relocation of families impacted by the demolitions.
“Some mischief makers may be peddling false narratives, but I refuse to be distracted. My focus remains on delivering the dividends of this administration to the people.” Alebiosu stated.
Highlighting ongoing and upcoming projects, the Commissioner announced that channelisation works have been concluded in Agboyi–Ketu, with plans underway to officially launch the jetty in the area. He also revealed that the Bariga Jetty, approved by Mr. Governor, will be converted into a modern fish market, a move expected to boost local commerce and livelihoods. According to him, the regeneration effort will extend through the Ogudu and Bariga axis.
“My strategy is simple: aim and fire, not shoot and hope. Regeneration is the future,” he declared.
On environmental sustainability, he reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to protecting waterfront resources, particularly sand, through strict enforcement against illegal dredging.
“We cannot survive with dredging, and we also cannot survive without sand. What is important is regulation, monitoring the volume of sand being pumped daily to protect our environment and future,” he concluded
