Lekki Conservation Centre plans new features to enrich visitors’ experience

Dr Joseph Onoja, Director- General of Lekki, Conservation Centre, the centre is collaborating with a Canadian company to upgrade its features and introduce new ones.

Onoja disclosed this to our correspondent on Friday in Lagos.

The D-G said the enhancement of existing features and introduction of new ones was to continually enrich visitors’ experience by making their interaction with nature more exciting.

He said the canopy walkway and other features at the centre were originally constructed by the Canadian company.

“We are working closely with the Canadian company to introduce new features, including the addition of more towers, for better views and the potential integration of a zip line and other attractions.

“These improvements are designed to enrich visitors experience while maintaining the natural beauty of our surroundings,” said Onoja.

NEWSVERGE reports that Onoja spoke in response to concerns raised by a viral video regarding the safety and condition of the canopy walk bridge.

The video, which surfaced on Jan. 21, 2024, depicted a situation on Dec. 16, 2023, eliciting public concerns.

The concerns prompted an immediate response from the facility’s management.

Onoja, speaking on the incident, said there was no cause for alarm as the issue was even fixed within 30 minutes after it happened.

“We are proud to maintain one of the safest and most well-maintained canopy walkways in Lagos State.

“Our rigorous safety protocol demands that every morning, our technicians meticulously inspect the canopy walkway before any tourist is allowed to climb.

“Additionally, every quarter, we conduct a comprehensive maintenance check,” said Onoja.

He, however, said “the incident has prompted an even greater focus on safety. The Canadian company responsible for constructing the canopy walkway has conducted a thorough inspection and provided recommendations.

“In line with their advice, we have imported specialised parts from Germany, which are currently being installed.

“These enhancements aim to enrich the visitor experience while preserving the natural environment, “he said.

Onoja also commended the state government for “recognising the importance of safety and the concerns raised by the viral video, the government has been proactive.

“The Lagos State Safety Commission, led by the Director General and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, visited the centre

“Their inspection confirmed that our safety measures are sound and ongoing support has been pledged, both morally and financially, although the latter is still pending.

“We are grateful for the moral support from the government, while we await financial assistance, their endorsement of our safety protocols has been reassuring, “he said.

Onoja, said the centre would continue to enhance the walkway and other features for visitors’ satisfaction.

“We acknowledge the concerns raised by the viral video and we have taken decisive steps to ensure such incidents do not recur. Our priority is the safety and satisfaction of our visitors and staff.

“We assure the public that we are committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and natural experience at our facility.

“The measures we have implemented and our ongoing improvements underscore this commitment, “he said.