Construction of Gabion Retaining Wall for Shore Protection Works at Nigeria

Nigeria |  Rapid Link Multinational Ltd.

Challenge

Due to wave action during rising of sea level and high rise tides, extensive erosion has been observed along the boundary of the plot near sea face. This was affecting the aesthetics and safety of the visitors around. So, it was necessary to construct a retaining structure that will retain the soil behind it in place and prevent erosion. The height of the protection was 4.0m (above ground level).

Solution

In order to overcome the problem of erosion and retain the sea facing slope, TechFab India has proposed the

construction of Gabion retaining wall, which is one of the quickest and most economical ways to reduce shoreline erosion. Gabion Retaining walls are very much suitable in case of retaining structures for protection, nearby the water body. Gabions can take differential settlement effectively. Gabion retaining walls are highly permeable, flexible and free draining and hence do not develop pore water pressure.

A Gabion wall of 5.0m height including foundation depth is constructed and geotextile is also provided as a filter media behind the retaining wall. For the scour protection, gabion mattress has been recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions
(FAQs)

Rising sea levels, wave action, and high tides caused extensive erosion along the sea‑facing boundary of the plot. This erosion threatened safety, aesthetics, and long‑term usability of the area, making protective measures essential.

The shoreline was highly vulnerable to erosion and scour. Conventional rigid retaining structures were costly, less adaptable to settlement, and difficult to construct near water bodies. A flexible, quick, and economical solution was required.

TechFab India proposed a Gabion Retaining Wall system:

  • TechFab Metal Gabions (stone‑filled wire mesh baskets) for the main retaining wall.
  • TechGeo Nonwoven Geotextile as filter media behind the wall to prevent soil migration while allowing water flow.
  • Gabion Mattress for scour protection at the toe of the wall.
  • Highly permeable, preventing pore water pressure buildup.
  • Flexible, adapting to differential settlement.
  • Durable and cost‑effective compared to concrete structures.
  • Quick to construct, even with locally available materials.
  • Environmentally friendly, blending with natural surroundings.

A gabion wall of 5.0 m height (including foundation depth) was constructed, with 4.0 m above ground level providing effective shoreline protection.

  • TechFab Metal Gabion
  • TechGeo Nonwoven Geotextile
  • Gabion Mattress (for scour protection)

The gabion retaining wall successfully stabilized the shoreline, prevented erosion, and enhanced safety for visitors. The solution delivered durability, cost efficiency, and long‑term performance under challenging marine conditions.

By delivering a sustainable, quick, and economical shore protection solution, TechFab India demonstrated its ability to address coastal engineering challenges with innovative geosynthetics, ensuring safety and environmental harmony.