Giwa Gardens Water Park & Resort, acclaimed as West Africa’s largest and most technologically advanced water park, opened its doors on Saturday, December 16, 2023. Located on the expansive grounds of Lagos’ Lekki Peninsula Island area, the resort offers an impressive array of attractions, including water houses, pirate ships, a wave pool, an extreme river, and a serene jacuzzi bar. The facility also includes adventure caves, delightful dining options, and indulgent treats from ice cream and candy factories. With a spacious car park accommodating up to 800 vehicles.
The opening day exuded glamour and excitement until a concerning trend emerged on social media concerning safety and health measures at the park. Some individuals took to various platforms, urging the Lagos state government to intervene. Notably, Masidat Kassim shared her harrowing experience on her Instagram page, @masidat_kassim, just a day after the grand opening. She expressed her dismay about the insufficient safety precautions at the park, stating:
“This morning I went to @giwagardens @keji_giwa with my family to have fun, and it did not end well. The pools are too shallow for the long slides; my daughter hit her head when she went on it and came back to tell me I shouldn’t go…I thought she was exaggerating. I went on the slide and hit my forehead head on the tiles in the pool; I have been to at least 5 water parks in different countries; there is always a rubber laid in all the pools, my head hit the tiles directly, and my lips caught into two.”
Highlighting another incident, she added, “The first accident I had was at the river; I tumbled in the tube and the back of my head hit the tiles; I left immediately with my daughter not knowing a bigger one was coming…The staff did not even see it as a big deal!! It took them almost 15mins before I saw one who took me casually to the nurse. The first aid service is wack!!! No good plaster available! Am not here looking for attention; I am just trying to save another victim from this disaster.”
In response to these concerns, Giwa Gardens Management issued an apology, stating, “We sincerely apologize for the recent incident at Giwa Gardens, and we are working closely with the Lagos State Safety Commission to enhance safety precautions. The specific slide (rainbow slide) has been temporarily taken out of use pending final investigations by the Safety Commission and approval to re-use.”
The management emphasized that they are actively collaborating with the Lagos State Health & Safety Commission to address assumptions made online. They clarified that premium non-slip tiles are used throughout the water park, and safety signs are in place for every ride. They also pledged ongoing efforts to enhance safety protocols following international standards.
Promptly responding to the situation, the Lagos State Government took decisive action, resulting in the indefinite closure of Giwa Gardens until stringent health and safety measures are met and certified by the government for a new opening date.
