My visit to Makoko leaves an evergreen memory and heartfelt experience in me. That was in January 2022, I had a rare opportunity of visiting the floating community right in the city of Lagos. This community is regarded as the Venice of Africa (an opinion of some writers).
Basically Makoko is accessible by land, through adekunle street, off Herbert Marculey road Yaba. On getting to the terminal, I was ferried-in on a local boat, by a skillful boat rider, (he obviously knew the terrain and has vast knowledge of the people's history). Thus he was both my tour guide and my rider. His knowledge and friendly attributes made him endearing to me even more.
Predominantly the habitants here are fishermen by occupation, owing to their proximity to the Lagos lagoon. This in turn makes their wives traders of their fishing exploits. They are varieties of fishes and seafood available in Makoko.
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According to records, there are six public schools in Makoko, most popular among them is the floating school, that was constructed in 2013 but later abadon in 2016 due to safety reasons.
Historically this people migrated from Benin republic and Badagry area of Lagos in the 19th century to Lagos. There's a primary health care center on the land area of the community. It is said that an estimated 85,000-100,000 people resides in Makoko. Their houses are built on stilt which are not supported by Land. The community has no formal infrastructure and is deeply characterised by lack of urbanization.
In the face of all these lacks, they remain cheerful and accommodating to visitors,(their smiling faces said that much).
I earnestly look forward to another visit again in the near future.
Makoko is a tourist site that can generate huge income for the government and the residents, if the government and corporate bodies intervene by providing some basic infrastructure for the community.
