Sanitation compliance improving in Lagos – HoS

The Lagos State Head of Service (HoS), Mr Bode Agoro, says residents’ compliance with the monthly environmental sanitation is improving, although more participation is still needed.

The Head of Service made the observation on Saturday while monitoring the exercise in Apapa Local Government Area.

Agoro said many residents participated in cleaning their surroundings despite the reduced turnout occasioned by the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

He said: “It is picking up and could be better. 

“A lot of people who should come out are not yet doing so, but it is not bad because many have travelled for the Eid festival and are yet to return.

“We have seen a lot of cooperation from residents, particularly women, and people are coming out to clean their environment.”

Agoro said continuous public enlightenment remained critical to sustaining environmental cleanliness and promoting healthy living.

He said: “If we keep pushing the message, it will continue to sink in. 

“People need to know that the government is serious about keeping the environment clean.

“Nobody likes to live in a dirty environment. 

“A clean environment contributes to better health and helps reduce the spread of diseases.”

Agoro noted that while sanctions existed for environmental offences, the government’s focus was on encouraging voluntary compliance.

He said: “There are sanctions for indiscriminate dumping of refuse and other environmental offences. 

“The Ministry of the Environment carries out enforcement actions where necessary.

“However, we want a situation where people do the right thing without being forced. 

“It is not rocket science. 

“Your environment belongs to you and you have a responsibility to keep it clean.”

Agoro urged residents not to leave environmental cleanliness solely to government agencies.

He added: “The government is all of us. 

“Do not wait for the government to clean your environment. 

“Take responsibility for your surroundings because it is where you live, work and raise your families.”

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Apapa Local Government Area, Idowu Senbanjo, said environmental officials and sanitary inspectors were actively carrying out their duties across the council area.

Senbanjo said in spite of the ongoing enforcement and advocacy efforts, some residents still engaged in practices that undermined environmental sanitation.

She said: “Our sanitary inspectors are doing what they are supposed to do. 

“They clear refuse and encourage residents to use waste bins properly and avoid illegal trading on roads.