The National Inland Waterways Authority has started clearing water hyacinths from major Lagos water channels, aiming to improve safety and transportation for increased waterway traffic expected during the holiday season.
In a statement on Wednesday, NIWA’s Lagos Area Manager, Sarat Braimah, said the initiative will cover high-traffic routes, beginning with Omu Creeks and the Ikorodu water channels.
“We want to ensure everything is in order as boat traffic rises for the Christmas season,” she stated.
Braimah noted that while Omu Creeks has already been cleared, the Ikorodu channels will require at least a week of intensive work, involving the removal of waste and invasive water plants.
“The Ikorodu channel is a key area since weeds can spread from there to other parts of Lagos’ waterways,” she explained.
This project, she added, aligns with NIWA’s mission to maintain safe and accessible routes for boat operators and other waterway users.
“Our goal is to keep these channels clear for smooth navigation during and beyond the Yuletide,” Braimah emphasized, pointing out that water hyacinths often reappear in Lagos waterways as the season progresses.
The clearance operation will extend to Badagry and Apapa water channels, though Ikorodu remains a primary focus at present.
Braimah assured the public of NIWA’s commitment, stating, “Our staff are working daily, with river marshals deployed to monitor boating activities. It’s a demanding project, but we are dedicated to seeing it through.”
