The Lagos State Government has charged Local Governments in the State not to give room for touts and unauthorised personnel to establish illegal markets which contribute to littering the environment.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Dr. Gaji Tajudeen gave this charge at the Lagos West Senatorial District Stakeholders meeting organised by the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), held at the Ikeja Local Government, Ikeja, Lagos on Tuesday.
Tajudeen, who was represented by Mrs Ilori Temitope, said the constitution of designated markets in the State falls under the purview of Local Government Councils.
“In this vein, we implore our councils to be partners in progress and not give room for touts and unauthorised personnel to establish illegal markets which contribute largely to litter occupying our roads and ending up blocking the drainages and canals.
“Also, most importantly, is to enjoin the State Market Board under the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to spread the gospel to our markets on the need to keep the designated market environs clean, patronise approved LAWMA-PSP operators and not encroach on roads,” he said.
He emphasised that periodic engagements and interactive meetings with relevant stakeholders in the public are pertinent to achieving voluntary compliance by spreading the message to the grassroots at the Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas.
Tajudeen charged the Heads of Sanitation Departments in LGAs and LCDAs in Lagos West Senatorial District to renew their partnership with LAGESC in ridding the State of environmental nuisances in the appropriate residential and public areas as part of a cogent collaboration.
The Corps Marshal, LAGESC, CP Akinpelu Gbemisola (Rtd), in her opening address, emphasised the importance of environmental sanitation and the indispensable role of communities.
“As we strive for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos, it is essential to recognise that the responsibility lies not only with government agencies but also with each and every one of us seated here today.
“Our communities are the heart and soul of Lagos. They are the places we call home, where our families grow, and where we forge lasting connections. It is within these communities that the power to make a difference truly resides,” she said.
According to Akinpelu, by actively engaging in environmental sanitation practices, Lagosians could create a ripple effect that would transform the neighbourhoods and ultimately the entire city.
She added that simple acts like proper waste disposal, recycling, and regular cleaning of the surroundings could go a long way in preventing the spread of diseases, reducing pollution, and preserving natural resources.
“In addition to all these, our communities have the power to inspire and educate others. By organising awareness campaigns, workshops, and community clean-up drives, we can motivate our fellow residents to take pride in their environment and join us in this noble cause.
“Let us also remember the importance of collaboration. By partnering with local authorities, non-profit organisations, and businesses, we can pool our resources and expertise to tackle environmental challenges head-on. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Lagos for generations to come,” Akinpelu stated.
She emphasised that community engagement is key, urging residents to organise regular clean-up drives where residents come together to beautify their neighbourhoods, saying this would not only improve sanitation but would also foster a sense of unity and pride in communities across the state.
