In a strategic move to harness the economic benefits of the maritime sector, the executive chairmen of Ikorodu Local Government and its Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) held a pivotal meeting with delegates from the Lagos Association of Maritime Contractors, Petro Gas Servicing Operators, and Water Transporters on September 20, 2022.
The meeting, held at the Ikorodu Local Government Secretariat, marked a significant step towards fostering collaboration between government agencies and the maritime sector to boost waterway business, enhance security, and generate revenue for the Ikorodu Division.
The council representatives, including Hon. Wasiu Adesina (Executive Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government), Bldr. Sesan Daini (Chairman, Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA), Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo Alogba (Chairman, Ijede LCDA), and Bldr. Adeola Adebisi Banjo (Chairman, Ikorodu North LCDA), received the maritime stakeholders.
Speaking with Ikorodu News Network (INN) after the meeting, Group Marine Captain Taiwo O. Mogbojuri, the Board of Trustees Chairman of the association, emphasized the association’s commitment to unifying and developing the maritime sector in Ikorodu.
Captain Mogbojuri highlighted Ikorodu’s potential as a maritime hub, noting that regions like Igbogbo Baiyeku, Ikorodu West, and Ikorodu Central are thriving, while Ijede LCDA holds promise despite challenges with road networks. He explained that the meeting sought to align local maritime activities with global standards and federal policies while creating a safer and more efficient business environment.
“This joint agreement with the council will foster safer waterways, attract investment, and boost Ikorodu’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). By eradicating operational complexities, Ikorodu can avoid the challenges faced in Apapa, Lagos, and present a flexible, globally recognized model of maritime operations,” Captain Mogbojuri said.
He also encouraged Ikorodu residents to embrace opportunities in the maritime sector, noting its potential to create direct and indirect employment, improve living standards, and enhance council revenues. He assured that the collaboration would involve security agencies to ensure the safety of waterways and prevent negative activities.
Speaking on behalf of the council chairmen, Hon. Wasiu Adesina described the meeting as a groundbreaking initiative for revenue generation, security enhancement, and economic growth.
“This collaboration is timely. It will not only enhance our revenue but also attract major stakeholders like SIFAX Group, Dangote, and Flour Mills to Ikorodu, leading to increased business activities, employment, and improved living standards,” Adesina stated.
Adesina emphasized that adequate security measures would be implemented to address potential risks, such as bribery and theft, ensuring a safe and secure environment for maritime operations.
He added, “Our goal is to unlock the full economic potential of our waterways while conserving these resources for future generations. This partnership is a pathway to taking millions of people out of poverty and stimulating growth in the Ikorodu Division.”
The meeting sets the stage for a transformative era in Ikorodu’s maritime industry, with plans to establish Ikorodu as a leading hub for waterway transportation and shipping business in Lagos State.
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