Current Situation in Makoko
The Makoko community in Lagos is at the centre of urgent humanitarian discussions as a result of the recent 2025–2026 demolitions by government authorities. This iconic waterfront community, known worldwide for its unique floating settlements, is now grappling with widespread displacement and instability. The ongoing crisis has underscored the crucial need for targeted assistance and sustainable development for the Makoko community.
The Impact of Displacement on the Makoko Community
During the recent demolitions, thousands of Makoko residents, including vulnerable families and children, were left homeless. According to local reports, over 4,000 people—including more than 40 orphaned children—were forced to abandon their only place of residence. Many now survive in precarious conditions, living temporarily on boats or in makeshift shelters on the lagoon, exposed to the harsh elements and without adequate protection.
This mass displacement has created a severe humanitarian emergency. There is an acute shortage of essential supplies such as food, safe shelter, and access to education and healthcare. Efforts are urgently needed to provide the community with support to help residents recover from the crisis and rebuild their lives.
Daily Life and Challenges in Makoko
Makoko is renowned as one of the world’s largest floating villages, with origins as a small fishing settlement dating back to the late 19th century. Over decades, as Lagos expanded, the community grew out onto the water, with thousands of residents constructing wooden homes on stilts above the lagoon. The community primarily consists of fishing families with deep cultural traditions and closely-knit social structures.
Life in Makoko is shaped by its watery surroundings. Canoes are the main mode of transport, floating markets serve as hubs of commerce, and children grow up adapting to life on the water. Despite the vibrant spirit and resilience of its people, the community faces severe challenges. Access to clean water, basic sanitation, reliable healthcare, and formal education is extremely limited. Many families experience daily hardship, struggling to meet even their simplest needs.
Education and Resilience in the Makoko Community
Education remains highly valued within the community despite difficult circumstances. Local schools function in overcrowded and under-resourced environments, often with several children sharing a single bench and very limited school materials. Teachers work tirelessly with the little they have, and classrooms typically lack essential resources like exercise books and proper supplies.
One local school provides education for around 41 orphaned children from Makoko, in addition to other students from the area. These children depend almost entirely on external aid to continue their studies and receive both academic and emotional support. The lack of stable housing and basic infrastructure further complicates access to education, yet students and teachers continue to show remarkable determination and motivation every day.
Support Strategies for the Makoko Community
The African Talents Foundation has taken a direct and participatory approach in supporting the community. Their first visit involved listening sessions to better understand the needs and challenges faced by residents, teachers, and schoolchildren. On their second visit, the Foundation provided practical assistance, including much-needed exercise books and learning materials, to promote education in Makoko.
Establishing trust and maintaining a strong relationship with local residents is essential for lasting impact. This ongoing, collaborative approach allows interventions to be tailored specifically to community priorities and ensures that support is respectful and effective.
Looking Forward: Long-Term Goals
The commitment to support the Makoko community extends beyond immediate aid. Current priorities include strengthening educational opportunities, improving food security, enhancing sanitation—especially for girls—and upgrading classroom environments. These efforts are carried out in partnership with local leaders to ensure that they are sustainable and beneficial over the long term.
Through continuous engagement and trust, there is hope to empower Makoko’s children throughout their educational journey, paving the way for a brighter, more secure future for the entire community.
Read next: Makoko – more than a floating community · Makoko emergency support · Support this work
