Visitation to Makoko Slum – Yaba Local Government Area, Lagos

Our team embarked on a community outreach/visitation to Makoko, a densely populated slum situated in the Yaba Local Government Area of Lagos State. Known as the “Venice of Africa,” Makoko is a unique settlement where a significant portion of the population lives in houses built on stilts over the Lagos Lagoon.

Purpose of the Visit:

The visitation was organized with the aim of:

* Engaging with residents to better understand their living conditions.
* Providing support—whether material, medical, educational, or spiritual.
* Documenting the challenges and needs of the community for future intervention or advocacy.

Observations:

* Living Conditions: Many structures are makeshift, with limited access to clean water, electricity, or proper sanitation. Despite the harsh conditions, a strong sense of community thrives.
* Education & Healthcare: Facilities are either inadequate or entirely lacking. Several children are out of school, and healthcare access is minimal.
* Economic Activities: Residents engage in fishing, small-scale trading, and informal labor to sustain their livelihoods.

 Community Interaction:

We were warmly received by members of the community. Elders, youth, and children alike expressed a deep yearning for attention from the outside world and the government. Their resilience and hospitality were both humbling and inspiring.

 Key Takeaways:

* Makoko is not just a slum—it is home to thousands of Nigerians with dreams, challenges, and untapped potential.
* There is an urgent need for infrastructural development, educational support, healthcare services, and sustainable empowerment initiatives.
* Outreach programs, even in small efforts, can bring hope and spark transformation.