The Lagos State government, in partnership with the Nigerian Navy under the Western Naval Command, has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to operators of public facilities and businesses in Apapa to restore cleanliness and order in the area.

The directive, announced on Saturday, follows a collaborative effort by the state government and the Navy to address longstanding sanitation challenges in Apapa and its environs.

Speaking with journalists after the exercise, which extended to Mobil Road and Marine Beach, the Special Adviser on the Environment, Mr Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, described the initiative as a “beautiful partnership” between Lagos State and the Navy. He said the clean-up would significantly improve the well-being of residents.

The team identified various environmental violations, particularly in motor parks and mechanic workshops.

Mr Rotimi-Akodu pointed out that activities such as motor boys sleeping in trucks, traders operating on roads, and mechanics using unauthorised spaces contribute to the disorder. He emphasised that both the state and the Navy are committed to restoring order and maintaining the collaboration.

Mechanics operating under the Marine Beach Bridge were given a 48-hour ultimatum to vacate the area. Meanwhile, motor boys, drivers, traders, and mechanics were engaged and educated on the importance of the exercise.

Rotimi-Akodu reiterated that the state government prohibits motor boys from sleeping in parks, the sale of alcohol in parks or on roads, and the existence of shanties, all of which violate the State Environmental Sanitation laws.

He urged the public to embrace a culture of environmental cleanliness, stating, “Cleanliness is next to Godliness.”

Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, highlighted that the exercise aligns with the military-civil engagement strategy. He noted that the Navy’s involvement underscores the importance of cleanliness for security and assured that the effort would be sustained.

The Chairman of Apapa Local Council, Mr Idowu Senbanjo, expressed gratitude to the Lagos State government and the Navy for the initiative and pledged the council’s support.

The Special Adviser was accompanied by the Permanent Secretaries of the Office of Environmental Services, Dr Gaji Omobolaji; Office of Drainage Services, Mahamood Adegbite; and other directors from the ministry and its agencies.