Lagos reiterates commitment to enforcing environmental laws

The Lagos State government has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing environmental laws, stressing that its actions are not driven by high-handedness but by the need to ensure good governance and sustainable development.

Speaking during the “Ask Lagos Live” programme on X, themed “Lagos and the battle for a clean, sustainable and resilient environment,” Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, appealed to residents to view enforcement measures as necessary steps for the collective good.

Wahab urged residents to collaborate with the government in protecting the environment, stating, “I want to thank Lagosians and appeal to everyone to join hands in making our environment better for future generations. Things are improving, and we won’t relent in our efforts.”

The commissioner disclosed that the state government has intensified the enforcement of laws on noise pollution, street trading, and other environmental issues. He noted that some churches and mosques had been sealed in recent months for flouting noise pollution regulations.

Wahab explained that Lagos, with its small landmass and unique topography, houses about 10 per cent of Nigeria’s population and experiences a daily influx of migrants. This, he said, places significant pressure on infrastructure, including environmental systems.

He highlighted waste management as a critical area of focus, citing the state’s ability to manage over 13,000 tons of municipal solid waste daily. The introduction of Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators has been a game changer, though hindered by residents’ refusal to pay for waste collection.

To tackle waste, Wahab said the government has signed agreements with reputable companies on waste-to-wealth initiatives and plans to decommission major landfill sites. Advocacy efforts are ongoing to discourage the improper disposal of waste into drainage systems.

Addressing flooding, Wahab noted that resilient infrastructure has helped reduce flash floods. He cited progress in the Orchid Corridor, where residents and the government collaborated to restore blocked drainage systems, easing flooding in the area during the rainy season.

The commissioner also announced plans to ban single-use plastics by January 2025 and emphasised ongoing efforts to combat open defecation through advocacy and enforcement.

“We are committed to protecting the lives of over 22 million Lagosians and ensuring Lagos remains resilient in the face of environmental challenges,” Wahab concluded.