Waterfront
By Aderonke Ojediran
Mr Dayo Alebiosu, Lagos State Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, says the state’s waterfront agenda is driven by law, vision and effective planning.
Alebiosu said on Friday that the agenda was not driven by political considerations or personal connections.
He spoke with journalists on Lagos State waterfront development, regulation and planning.
The official said that competence and intent, rather than sentiments or politics, had guided government decisions in the sector.
“Waterfront is a technical space. Our focus is on law, planning and development.
“It is not about politics or where anyone comes from,” he said.
He cautioned against attempts to politicise professional appointments and policy decisions.
Alebiosu, a former member of the Federal House of Representatives, said there were opportunities across the state and they should be approached with vision rather than suspicion.
“There is water in Kosofe. If development can happen in Ilashe, it can happen elsewhere,” he said.
The commissioner said that areas such as Ilashe transformed through deliberate planning and investment.
Alebiosu said he focused on long-term impact.
“The mind is the most fertile ground in the world; whatever you drop there will grow,” he said.
The commissioner emphasised the need to separate humanitarian interventions from political interests.
” We must also separate issues of governance from political interests.
“I prefer quiet humanitarian interventions to public display.
“Why would you come to me privately for help and then I turn around to publicise it? That does not make sense to me,” he said.
According to him, the state now adopts an evidence-based approach to assistance.
“We now raise funds collectively, engage directly and ask for proof that the need is real,” he said.
Alebiosu urged constructive criticisms and discouraged deliberate provocation and destructive criticisms.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Lagos State Government to lawful waterfront development, responsible governance and interventions driven by intent, accountability and long-term value.(NAN)
