The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced the re-introduction of the Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise across the state. The exercise is aimed at promoting environmental responsibility among residents and improving overall cleanliness in communities.
Background and Rationale
The Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise was previously a long-standing environmental management practice in Lagos State, aimed at encouraging residents to clean their immediate surroundings and properly dispose of waste. However, the programme was suspended in the past following a court ruling that raised concerns over the enforcement of movement restrictions during the sanitation period.
Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the decision to suspend the exercise at that time demonstrated the state government’s respect for the rule of law and the authority of the courts. Following a comprehensive review of the enforcement mechanisms and operational framework of the programme, the government has now reintroduced the sanitation exercise with adjustments designed to comply with legal provisions while maintaining its core environmental objectives.
Details of the Sanitation Exercise
According to the Governor, the sanitation exercise will be held on the last Saturday of every month between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.. Unlike the previous format, there will be no restriction on movement during the exercise. However, state officials will monitor compliance, and appropriate sanctions will be imposed on neighbourhoods or markets that fail to comply with the sanitation requirements.
Flag-off Ceremony
The announcement was made during a symbolic flag-off ceremony held at Olosa Bus Stop in Mushin. The Governor led senior government officials, including the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, and other members of the state cabinet, in a cleanup exercise along the Mushin corridor.
Governor’s Remarks
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the importance of cultivating a culture of environmental responsibility among residents. He noted that environmental sanitation is a civic duty that should be reflected in the lifestyle and habits of citizens across all communities in Lagos.
He observed that residents previously took voluntary steps to maintain clean surroundings. However, he explained that the commitment gradually declined after the sanitation exercise was suspended by a previous administration, which led to inconsistent and uncoordinated environmental cleanup activities.
The Governor reiterated that maintaining a clean city is a shared responsibility that requires both government initiatives and active cooperation from citizens.
Legal Context and Policy Adjustment
Governor Sanwo-Olu recalled that the earlier suspension of the monthly sanitation exercise followed a court ruling related to movement restrictions imposed during the exercise. He stressed that the state government respected the rule of law and complied with the court’s directive at the time.
Following a review of the enforcement mechanisms, the government has now reintroduced the exercise with reduced restrictions, ensuring compliance with legal provisions while still promoting environmental cleanliness.
Government’s Environmental Goals
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, described the reintroduction of the sanitation exercise as a significant step toward improving public health and environmental sustainability in Lagos State.
He stated that the initiative aligns with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda of the Sanwo-Olu administration, which prioritizes creating a safe, clean, and liveable environment for residents.
Public Awareness and Compliance
The Commissioner also emphasized that the exercise aims to educate residents on the importance of taking ownership of their environment. Citizens are encouraged to regularly clean their surroundings, dispose of waste responsibly, and adopt a culture of cleanliness.
He further warned that communities that fail to comply with the directive will be subject to penalties in accordance with the Lagos State Environmental Protection Law 2017.
Conclusion
The reintroduction of the Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise reflects the Lagos State Government’s renewed commitment to environmental sustainability. Through collective participation and compliance, the initiative is expected to foster a culture of environmental consciousness and contribute to maintaining a cleaner and healthier Lagos.
