World Ocean Day marked with calls for stricter waste regulation as plastic pollution disrupts trade and tourism in Ikoyi

Lagos State officials have commenced a targeted clean-up of Ikoyi waterfront and adjoining waterways on Monday, following growing concerns over marine litter undermining Nigeria’s blue economy agenda. The move comes as the global maritime sector observed World Ocean Day, with stakeholders warning that unchecked pollution is impacting fisheries, shipping, and tourism revenues in the commercial capital.

The clean-up operation was initiated after reports revealed heaps of plastic bags, bottles, cans, styrofoam, and abandoned fishing nets clogging Lagos’ coastal corridors. Authorities noted that indiscriminate dumping by individuals and companies has escalated the environmental threat to inland waterways. Local residents reported that litter has blocked drainage channels and created health hazards along the waterfront.

Nigeria’s blue economy sector — encompassing shipping, fisheries, and tourism — contributes billions of naira annually to national revenue. However, experts say rising marine waste poses a direct threat to these gains by disrupting navigation, contaminating fish stocks, and deterring tourists from waterfront attractions. “If we don’t address this menace now, Nigeria risks losing out on the vast opportunities our seas offer,” a maritime industry source said during the World Ocean Day event in Lagos.

Officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment stated that new regulations are being considered to strengthen enforcement against illegal dumping along waterways. Private sector operators have also intensified collaborative efforts through beach clean-ups and awareness campaigns. “We are working with local communities to ensure sustainable waste management practices,” one official said at Monday’s event.

Environmental advocates warn that unless strict action is sustained, marine litter could undermine ongoing investments in Nigeria’s blue economy initiative. Stakeholders are calling for a national framework on marine waste management and increased funding for public sensitisation. The state government is expected to unveil a comprehensive action plan targeting both urban drainage systems and coastal communities in coming weeks.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/maritime/overcoming-marine-litter-under-nigerias-blue-economy-agenda/