In a renewed push to tackle environmental degradation and promote cleaner neighborhoods, the Lagos State Government has announced plans to reinstate the suspended monthly environmental sanitation exercise.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the announcement on Sunday following an inspection tour of key areas including Idi-Araba, Orile Iganmu, and the Alaba Rago Market. He emphasized the urgent need for Lagos residents to adopt responsible waste disposal and embrace sanitation as a way of life.
Speaking through a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kunle Adeshina, Wahab said the formal resumption date for the exercise would be communicated soon. He underscored that the decision is part of a broader strategy to curb persistent environmental infractions across the state.
“We cannot continue to allow this level of environmental abuse. The monthly sanitation is returning, and it will come with strict enforcement,” Wahab stated.
At Alaba Rago Market, the commissioner expressed disappointment over recurring violations, including indiscriminate dumping of waste on road medians and the obstruction of drainage systems. He warned that the government would not hesitate to seal off markets that fail to comply with environmental standards.
“The market was shut down in the past and we were assured improvements would be made. Sadly, the conditions are deteriorating again. If by Monday evening the infractions are not cleared, we will be forced to close the market,” he warned.
Wahab directed traders encroaching on roadways, drainage setbacks, and medians to immediately relocate into the main market premises, stressing that Lagos environmental laws strictly prohibit such practices.
He added that market leaders must take full responsibility for maintaining infrastructure and ensuring compliance among members. Failure to do so, he said, will attract sanctions including closures and legal action.
Beyond market enforcement, Wahab called on residents across the state to support the government’s sanitation drive by adopting responsible waste management habits. He urged Lagosians to stop littering public spaces, drainages, and canals, and to ensure household waste is properly bagged and disposed of.
“This is a collective responsibility. Cleaner communities mean healthier lives. We must all take ownership of the infrastructure provided and preserve the environment for ourselves and future generations,” Wahab concluded.
The reintroduction of the monthly sanitation exercise is part of broader efforts by the Lagos State Government to revamp its environmental policies amid rising concerns over flooding, public hygiene, and illegal waste disposal.
