🌍 Makoko Waterfront Revival: A Bold Step Toward Coastal Justice
On April 29, 2025, the floating slums of Makoko witnessed a wave of hope. With support from the Green Earth Action Foundation (GEAF), Life in My Hands Initiative (LiMHi) led a grassroots environmental campaign titled Makoko Waterfront Revival, uniting youth volunteers, NYSC members, and local leaders to confront marine pollution, raise awareness on aquatic biodiversity loss, and advocate for sustainable livelihoods in Nigeria’s most iconic coastal community.🌱 Restoring the Waterfront, Reigniting Community Voice
Despite heavy rainfall and unexpected logistical changes, over 1,500kg of plastic and household waste was removed from the shores. Community members joined hands with volunteers — some barefoot, some in boots — but all determined to rewrite the narrative of neglect that Makoko has long carried. Environmental education wasn’t left behind. With the aid of pamphlets and personal conversations, residents were sensitized on waste separation, safe reuse, and the danger of catching juvenile fish struggling to adapt to the polluted brackish waters — a finding echoed in recent research by Jolaosho et al. (2024).🔁 Waste to Wealth: The Upcycling Spark
Inside a volunteer bus turned creative studio, a spontaneous upcycling demonstration took place. Residents were shown how discarded plastics could be turned into items of value. The excitement was contagious. So much so that the local council requested a full-scale upcycling workshop — a return we’re already planning with the help of Upcycling Architects, led by Bilikisu.🌊 Digital Waves Beyond Lagos
Before and during the campaign, we launched a vibrant digital campaign that amplified the message of environmental justice beyond Makoko. Online impressions and personal messages proved that even a WhatsApp status or Instagram post could start a ripple of change.💬 Voices from the Ground
“This isn’t just about cleaning up trash. It’s about giving people hope — that their lives matter, that this water matters.” — Volunteer, NYSC
“I never knew some of these plastics could be used again in different ways. It really opened my eyes.” — Local youth, MakokoThe project reminded us of something vital: that sustainability starts with listening. Plans may fall apart, but purpose never should. From logistical mishaps to cultural resistance, we learned to adapt, lean on our community, and anchor ourselves in humility. We are laying the groundwork for the Blue Hands Initiative — a youth-led volunteer group from within Makoko who will continue environmental education and safe reuse practices. Our dream is to raise local champions who lead with heart, science, and accountability. Additionally, we hope to replicate and scale this initiative in Epe and Badagry, other overlooked coastal communities in Lagos with deep environmental needs.
LiMHi remains committed to turning awareness into action and restoring dignity to communities at the frontlines of climate injustice. We’re proud of what we achieved — not because it was perfect, but because it was real. Want to support or join us? Follow our journey on social media or reach out through our contact page. The ocean is in our hands — and together, we are reclaiming it.