Why Lagos’ Reintroducing Monthly Environmental Sanitation – Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has dropped a hint at the possibility of the return of monthly environmental sanitation to the state, following what he described as “appalling state” of uncleanliness observed in communities across the state.
Similarly, the governor yesterday kicked off a community based enlightenment and advocacy aimed at creating awareness about the need to encourage community participation in continuous sanitation and waste management, thereby reducing the risk of disease outbreaks.
The weekly action to sanitise the environment was flagged off at Campos Stadium on Lagos Island, where the Governor further explained the importance of regular sanitation for healthy living.
He enjoined Lagosians to also make continuous cleaning of their homes, surrounding and street drainages a priority onward. Sanwo-Olu urged compliance across communities in the State, noting that officers of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) would be deployed to collect all waste gathered in all areas for proper disposal.
Besides, the governor planted a tree at a symbolic ceremony organised at the State House in Marina by the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) in commemoration of the World Tree Planting Day, which is held globally to promote environmental sustainability.
Sanwo-Olu expressed concern over widespread practice of irregular waste disposal and level of uncleanliness in several communities, stressing that the sensitisation was necessary to maintain a sustainable environment. He said: “We are here to start an enlightenment campaign given the appalling state of our environment, which is totally unacceptable.
“We are witnessing a rising level of environmental nuisance being constituted around our communities. “We have seen heaps of refuse and the state of uncleanliness in the city. “This event is to kick off a statewide advocacy on improving physical cleanliness through continuous sanitation.
“We are using the sanitation in Lagos Island as a form of advocacy which we will push forward to the entire state on our plan to ensure we begin a collective action of ensuring cleanliness in our environment. “This is important and we strongly believe it is something every citizen must be awakened to.
“This effort must start from our houses, schools, offices and markets.” He said: “The conversation here is an enlightenment in which week after week, we will be going out to demonstrate our willingness to keep our environment clean.”
