The Lagos government’s move to demolish a private beach resort to make way for a planned road project is deeply troubling and shortsighted.
Development Diaries reports that the government of Lagos State recently issued a notice of demolition for Landmark Beach Resort.
The reason given by the state government is that the property obstructs the planned route of a 700-kilometer coastal road intended to connect the state with Calabar.
There are a few concerns related to this development.
For us, this decision of the Lagos government disregards the livelihoods of individuals who depend on the resort for employment. It showcases a blatant disregard for the economic well-being of the people it is meant to serve.
We understand that the property, which is worth over $200 million, accommodates more than 80 businesses and sustains over 4,000 jobs directly, according to the proprietor of the resort, Paul Onwuanibe.
The demolition will inevitably lead to significant job losses, which tends to worsen an already precarious employment situation in the country.
Many employees who rely on the resort for their livelihoods will suddenly find themselves without work, facing uncertainty and financial hardship.
Beyond just the workers themselves, the families of these lost jobs will also be impacted, as will the larger community that depends on the resort’s economic activities.
Instead of demolishing the beach resort, Development Diaries calls on the Lagos State government to explore alternative solutions that prioritise both infrastructure development and the preservation of existing businesses and employment opportunities.
Also, the state can explore collaborative approaches, such as negotiating with the resort owners to find a mutually beneficial solution or adjusting the road plan to minimise the impact on businesses.
Photo source: Landmark Africa