On the eastern part of Lagos lies Epe, a town strategically situated between two distinct bodies of water: Lekki Lagoon (freshwater) to the east and the brackish Lagos Lagoon to the west, with a perpetual connection to the Atlantic Ocean year-round.
Lagos State is the smallest state in Nigeria yet, it has the highest urban population. Its land area is 153,340 hectares, with 209 km – some 19.6 percent of its landmass covered by water and mangrove swamps.
The population of Epe according to a 2022 estimate is 270 thousand inhabitants, mainly Remo and Ijebu with Eko-Awori settlers, Ilaje, Ijaw and others in about a hundred and fifty villages around the vast body of water – many of them accessible only by boat. Fishing is the main occupation in these coastal communities.
Epe’s unique topography is awe-inspiring with breathtaking, dreamy and idyllic tropical scenery. A boat ride from the Fish Market to the left or right is filled with adventure. The ancient town can be described as the last frontier of Lagos with a complete ecosystem and ecological magic, from tiny Tree Frogs to enormous and gentle manatees.
Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), an invasive aquatic plant poses significant environmental and socioeconomic challenges in and around Epe. It outcompetes native aquatic plants, leading to reduced biodiversity. This affects fish populations and other aquatic organisms that depend on diverse habitats. Water hyacinth impedes navigation in the rivers and lagoons, affecting local transportation and trade. This can have economic implications for communities dependent on waterborne transport.
Managing water hyacinth is challenging due to its rapid growth and reproduction rate. These free floating plants clog water paths along the lagoon, thereby hindering livelihoods and negatively impacting the aquatic diversity. Lack of proper sanitation and water management also contributes to faster growth of the weeds.
Involving local communities in monitoring and controlling water hyacinth can contribute to improving development outcomes. Education campaigns can raise awareness about the impacts of this invasive plant and ultimately change behavior.
The Lagos Lagoon Climate Response Project aims to provide support to these communities with a holistic approach by providing education, health and economic interventions. More here.
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