A coalition of timber dealers, comprising the Ifesowapo Timber Contractors Association, Ijaw Timber Contractors Association, Towing Vessels Association of Nigeria, Timber Sawyers Association of Nigeria, and Timber Pullers Association of Nigeria, has called on Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to involve all industry stakeholders in the management of timber in the waterways and the potential relocation of the Okobaba Timber Business.
In a press statement signed by key representatives, including Mr. Akinte Gabriel, High Chief Cyrus Olopele, Mr. Oshodi Wasiu, Alhaji Taiwo Ahmed Quadri, and Mr. Monday Akuboh, the coalition expressed concerns over the rumored eviction of the Okobaba Timber Business. They pointed out that the state government’s approach has marginalized several key industry stakeholders by allowing only one association to represent the interests of timber dealers.
The statement criticized the lack of inclusiveness in the government’s current actions, arguing that decisions should be made collectively with all relevant parties. “The various groups in the timber industry did not authorize any single association to act on their behalf. Claims of representation by any group are for individual interests rather than collective needs,” the statement read.
The coalition emphasized the historical harmony among stakeholders in the timber business, which has been a hallmark of the industry in Lagos for nearly ninety years. They argue that the current government involvement has created a divisive and exclusionary environment.
The Okobaba Timber Business, known as the largest timber market in West Africa, has been a source of livelihood for contractors from various states, formerly known as Protectorates and Regions. The industry has operated successfully with mutual respect for stakeholders’ roles, and the coalition believes that this harmony is essential for continued success.
The state government had previously entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with stakeholders to facilitate the relocation of the Okobaba Timber Industry to Timber Villa in Agbowa/Ikosi/Owu. However, the coalition claims that the government’s allocation of the new site to a single association has disadvantaged other stakeholders.
The timber dealers are calling for a more inclusive approach to ensure that the interests of all parties are considered and that the relocation and management of the industry are handled equitably.
