In preparation for the anticipated surge in traffic on Lagos waterways this Yuletide season, the Lagos Area office of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has launched a comprehensive project to remove water hyacinth from key water channels, beginning with Omu Creek and the Ikorodu waterways.
According to an official press release sent to our correspondent by NIWA, the ongoing project targets major Lagos waterways that experience high boat traffic. It noted that currently, Omu Creek has been successfully cleared, while the Ikorodu channels are undergoing a week-long intensive removal process, involving waste disposal and eradication of the persistent water hyacinth.
Lagos Area Office Manager of NIWA, Engineer Sarat Braimah noted that the troublesome aquatic weed has often obstructed navigation, posing a significant risk to waterway safety. She emphasized that this clearance initiative aligns with the agency’s operational responsibilities to facilitate smooth and safe navigation for boat operators and other waterway stakeholders.
“We want to be proactive as we approach the Christmas holiday season, with an expected increase in boat transport activities. The season also brings the return of water hyacinth to our Lagos waterways, so it’s essential to clear them now, even though the weeds have the ability to grow back. We are committed to maintaining safe passage for boat operations throughout and beyond the Yuletide season,” Braimah explained.
Beyond Omu Creek and Ikorodu, Braimah stated that the water hyacinth clearance efforts will extend to other critical locations, including the Badagry and Apapa channels. However, she highlighted the Ikorodu channel as a priority, noting its role as a primary site from which the weeds spread to other Lagos littoral communities.
To complement the clearance, NIWA has deployed River Marshals to monitor boating activities and enforce safety measures during the season. “This is an extensive and resource-intensive project, but we are up to the task. Our team is working daily to ensure the waterways remain clear, safe, and navigable for all users,” Braimah added.
