Joseph Onoja, Director-General of Lekki Conservation Centre, has announced a partnership with a Canadian company to upgrade its facilities and introduce new attractions in response to recent safety concerns.
In a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday, Onoja detailed plans to enhance visitor experiences while maintaining safety standards at the popular conservation site in Lagos.
The collaboration comes in the wake of a viral video circulating on January 21, 2024, depicting an incident on December 16, 2023, involving the center’s canopy walk bridge. However, Onoja assured the public that the issue was promptly addressed within 30 minutes of its occurrence.
“We take pride in maintaining one of the safest and most well-maintained canopy walkways in Lagos State,” said Onoja. “Our stringent safety protocol requires technicians to meticulously inspect the canopy walkway every morning before allowing any tourists to climb. Additionally, we conduct comprehensive maintenance checks every quarter.”
Acknowledging concerns raised by the viral video, Onoja emphasized an increased focus on safety. The center is working closely with the Canadian company responsible for constructing the canopy walkway to implement recommendations for enhanced safety measures. Specialized parts from Germany have been imported and are currently being installed to ensure visitor safety while preserving the natural environment.
Onoja also commended the Lagos State government for its swift response to the safety concerns. Representatives from the Lagos State Safety Commission and the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism visited the center to assess safety measures, affirming their effectiveness.
“We are grateful for the moral support from the government, and while financial assistance is pending, their endorsement of our safety protocols has been reassuring,” Onoja added.
Looking ahead, Onoja assured visitors of continued enhancements to the center’s facilities, promising exciting new features to enrich their experiences. He reaffirmed the center’s commitment to providing a safe, enjoyable, and natural environment for visitors, with ongoing improvements reflecting this dedication.
