Lagos govt to reinstate compulsory monthly sanitation exercise from March
Lagos State to Reinstate Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise
The Lagos State Government announced plans to reinstate its mandatory monthly environmental sanitation exercise, which will take place on the last Saturday of each month, starting in March 2025.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, shared this information during an inspection of ongoing regeneration projects on Lagos Island. He was accompanied by Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment.
The sanitation exercise, historically held from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on the last Saturday of each month, was suspended in November 2016 due to challenges in enforcing movement restrictions in the densely populated area. However, Wahab noted that increasing issues such as indiscriminate waste disposal, blocked drainage channels, and growing refuse heaps have necessitated its return.
“Logistical challenges had delayed a previous restart,” Wahab said. “We are engaging with stakeholders to ensure a smooth reintroduction. I am confident the exercise will commence in March, if not sooner.”
Wahab emphasized that the environmental issues in Lagos are primarily linked to poor civic discipline rather than a lack of waste management capacity. He pointed out that markets along major traffic corridors contribute significantly to illegal dumping, despite having access to waste bins. The government plans to implement stricter enforcement actions in critical areas.
Regarding the Lagos Island regeneration initiative, Wahab reassured residents that the upgrades to drainage systems and public spaces are progressing. He highlighted improvements in several flood-prone areas that have eased movement and reduced environmental hazards.
During the inspection, officials visited the Oja-Oba underbridge, which is slated for redevelopment through a public-private partnership and corporate social responsibility framework. Wahab noted that clearing activities are ongoing while discussions continue with potential partners, with plans to execute the project in phases.
He urged residents to cultivate a consistent practice of environmental cleanliness, stating that sanitation should not be viewed solely as a government responsibility. “Setting aside a few hours weekly to clean our surroundings costs nothing, and that is the essence of reviving this initiative,” he said.
Wahab stated that the decision to restore the monthly sanitation exercise followed comprehensive discussions by the Lagos State Executive Council, with legal guidance from the Ministry of Justice. He clarified that earlier legal issues were focused on movement restrictions rather than the sanitation initiative itself, and those concerns have now been addressed.
He underscored the importance of establishing a sustainable culture of cleanliness to enhance public health and sustainable urban living in Lagos.
