The Lagos State Government has unveiled an innovative initiative, “Library on the Lagoon,” aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and deepening public engagement with the state’s waterways.
The project was launched on Monday by the General Manager of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Tunde Ajayi, who represented the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab.
Project Director, Maryam Kazeem, described the initiative as a unique social research platform that transforms the traditional idea of a library into an interactive, water-based experience. According to her, the project encourages participants to engage directly with the lagoon through guided activities that inspire reflection on its history, current state, and future.
Kazeem noted that the initiative also addresses pollution challenges affecting Lagos waterways, introducing creative tools such as a prototype trash collection system powered by a typewriter to spark dialogue and action.
She emphasized that the project promotes shared responsibility in tackling environmental degradation, stressing that sustainable solutions require collective effort beyond government intervention.
Ajayi explained that LASEPA partnered with the initiative to strengthen environmental advocacy through creative engagement, adding that the agency continues to monitor pollution levels and water quality across Lagos waterways.
He expressed optimism that the project would contribute to reducing plastic waste in the lagoon while raising awareness about environmental protection.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, Damilola Emmanuel, described the initiative as a model of collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society.
He said the state government is committed to expanding the project across more locations, noting that broader coverage would help preserve Lagos’ extensive lagoon systems.
The one-week programme, a collaboration involving Iranti Press and A Whitespace Creative Arts Foundation, runs from April 26 to May 2, 2026, at the Five Cowries Creek Terminal, Falomo, Ikoyi.
The initiative is expected to boost environmental awareness, encourage sustainable interaction with water bodies, and support Lagos State’s broader blue economy and climate action goals.