The Lagos State Government underscored the critical need for effective sanitation practices to maintain a clean, flood-free, and safe environment across the state during a recent Weekly Community-Based Environmental Sanitation Advocacy campaign. The event took place on Sunday at Omobokun Street, Ekimogun Underbridge Iyana Oworo, in the Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA).
Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, highlighted that the campaign aims to encourage residents to adopt good sanitation practices consistently. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance awareness and advocacy in advance of the upcoming monthly Sanitation Exercise, which will be officially announced by the Governor.
Wahab revealed that inspections in the area had uncovered problematic practices, such as septic tanks discharging into drainage systems and fences obstructing drainage channels. He warned that such properties would face enforcement actions, including sealing by the relevant authorities. Residents were urged to maintain clean drainage systems in front of their homes and avoid illegal waste disposal.
Addressing concerns about flooding in the Ekimogun area, Wahab assured that the government would investigate community claims linking sandfilling at Oworo end to recent flooding incidents. He emphasized the government’s commitment to finding a permanent solution to the flooding issue.
Wahab praised the success of the advocacy campaign, noting improvements in cleanliness and health in previously visited communities. He encouraged residents to adopt good environmental habits to alleviate pressure on the health sector and ensure the longevity of government infrastructure.
Bariga LCDA Chairman, Honourable Kolade Alabi, expressed disappointment over the poor condition of Ekimogun Road despite its recent commissioning by Governor Sanwo-Olu. He urged residents to cease littering and properly dispose of waste by using designated bins and engaging with Private Sector Participants (PSP) for waste management.
The Managing Director of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) announced plans to establish a recycling facility in Bariga LCDA. This “Waste to Wealth” facility aims to reduce illegal waste disposal and promote recycling. He assured residents that waste bins would soon be distributed to households in the area.
Hon. Suliat Oguns, Senior Special Assistant on Environmental Health for Bariga LCDA, pledged the community’s commitment to proper waste disposal and effective use of state-provided infrastructure.
The campaign highlighted the collaborative effort required from both government and residents to achieve a cleaner, more sustainable Lagos.
