WORLD OCEANS DAY 2025 : Lagos Champions Preservation Of Lagoons, Waterways, Aquatic Lives

All is set for Lagos State to join the rest of the world on Sunday, June 8, 2025, to celebrate World Oceans Day, a day set aside to raise awareness about the urgent need to protect and preserve oceans, lagoons, and waterways.

According to the Honourable Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Ekundayo Alebiosu, this year’s theme, “Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us,” will be a powerful reminder to all well-meaning Lagosians of our aquatic ecosystems’ vital role in everyday life.

“These vibrant bodies of water are more than just scenic landscapes; they regulate the climate, support marine biodiversity, and sustain the livelihoods of millions across Lagos and Nigeria.”

He further emphasised the importance of appreciating and safeguarding these natural resources. “From the bustling shorelines of Lagos to the remote coastal communities around the world, oceans and lagoons provide food, employment, recreation, and spiritual value. They are a gift of nature, a lifeline for fishermen, a playground for children, and a source of sustenance for families across Nigeria”, Alebiosu said.

He decried the growing negligence toward our waterways and highlighted the detrimental impact of human activities such as pollution, overfishing, and illegal dredging. “Today, our waters are under increasing pressure. Pollution, overfishing, and illegal dredging threaten the balance of these ecosystems. Our waters feed us here in Lagos, but currently, there is too much pressure on them,” he said.

According to him, World Oceans Day is more than a day of celebration. It is a call to action for men in authority, businesses, civil society, and individuals to unite in protecting our oceans and coastal environments.

Alebiosu also revealed that a series of events have been scheduled to commemorate the day, aimed at educating and inspiring Lagosians to take greater responsibility for water conservation.

“We will continue preaching and spreading the word until our water bodies are spared from the harm caused by human activity. We hope that after this event, our message is not just heard, but it is felt,” he said