The Lagos State Government has commended residents for the widespread participation recorded during the return of the monthly environmental sanitation day.
The exercise, held across the state on Saturday, saw residents from Ikorodu to Badagry, and from Lagos Island to Lagos Mainland, turn out in large numbers to clean their surroundings in a renewed commitment to environmental hygiene.
In a statement personally signed on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, conveyed the appreciation of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to residents for embracing the initiative.
“The Governor wishes to put on record the enthusiasm of Lagosians who woke up early to obey the call for a return to a culture that made our state a healthy and clean place for all,” Omotoso stated.
He quoted the governor as saying, “I thank Lagosians who joined the call to clean up our environment as a sure step to good health. That is patriotic; it is the Spirit of Lagos that we often speak about. We should continue to walk that path.”
The statement noted that the impressive turnout underscored a shared responsibility among residents to maintain a cleaner and safer environment, particularly as the rainy season approaches.
Omotoso further relayed the governor’s warning against indiscriminate dumping of refuse, especially in drainage channels, which could exacerbate flooding.
“Residents are urged to desist from indiscriminate dumping of waste, particularly as we approach the rainy season. Such acts endanger public health and undermine ongoing government efforts,” he said.
He disclosed that the state government had already commenced a large-scale clearance of gutters and drainage systems across Lagos in anticipation of heavy rainfall as forecast by meteorological authorities.
“The government has embarked on a massive cleanup of gutters and drainage systems to prevent flooding and ensure free flow of rainwater across the state,” the statement added.
Omotoso also revealed that the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources was collaborating with the Ministry of Information and Strategy to intensify public enlightenment campaigns.
“There is an ongoing statewide campaign to discourage indiscriminate refuse dumping and the blocking of drainage channels, as part of efforts to sustain a clean and flood-free environment,” he said.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and urged residents to sustain the momentum by making cleanliness a daily responsibility rather than a periodic exercise.
Lagos Commends Residents for Large Turnout at Sanitation Day
