Open defecation: Lagos urges banks, filling stations to allow public toilet access

The Lagos State Government has urged businesses to open their toilets to the public as part of efforts to end open defecation and improve sanitation in the state.

Environment and Water Resources Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab made the appeal in a post on X on Saturday, saying filling stations, banks, eateries and other public-facing facilities should make their restrooms accessible where possible to complement government efforts.

According to him, Lagos State currently has 1,710 functioning public toilets strategically located across the state for residents and visitors.

“As part of our sustained efforts to eliminate open defecation and improve public sanitation across Lagos State, we currently have 1,710 functioning public toilets strategically located across the state for residents and visitors.

“However, government cannot do this alone. We are encouraging businesses such as filling stations, banks, eateries, and other public-facing facilities to make their restrooms accessible to the public where possible. This collaborative approach will significantly complement government efforts and expand access to sanitation facilities across the state,” the statement read.

The commissioner added that the state government would continue to enforce environmental sanitation laws, warning that individuals caught engaging in open defecation would be arrested and prosecuted.

“At the same time, we continue to enforce environmental sanitation laws. Individuals caught engaging in open defecation are being arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. These measures are necessary to protect public health, preserve dignity, and maintain a cleaner environment for all,” the statement added.

He stressed that access to sanitation is a shared responsibility, noting that while government continues to expand infrastructure, residents and businesses must also play their part in keeping Lagos clean, safe and habitable.

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