Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has announced the return of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise in Lagos State, urging residents to take collective responsibility for maintaining a clean environment across communities.
Eko Hot News reports that the Governor made the announcement during a ceremony held at Olosa Bus Stop in Mushin to symbolically flag off the revived sanitation exercise.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, members of the state cabinet, and other government officials.
Governor Sanwo-Olu said the return of the monthly sanitation exercise is aimed at strengthening environmental responsibility among residents.
He emphasised that maintaining a clean city requires the active participation of citizens across all communities in the state.
According to the Governor, environmental sanitation was once widely observed by residents who voluntarily cleaned their surroundings every last Saturday of the month. Over time, the practice reduced following the suspension of the exercise by a previous administration.
He noted that many long-term residents remember when the sanitation exercise served as a moment for communities to come together to tidy their streets, drainage channels, and neighbourhood spaces. The revived programme, he said, aims to restore that culture of shared civic responsibility.
Sanwo-Olu explained that achieving a clean and healthy city cannot rely solely on government efforts. Instead, he said, residents must demonstrate discipline and cooperation by maintaining the cleanliness of their homes and communities.
The Governor also recalled that the sanitation exercise was previously halted after a court ruling related to movement restrictions during the exercise. He stated that the state government respected the decision of the court and complied with the directive at the time.
According to him, the government has now reviewed the enforcement process to ensure the programme continues without strict restrictions. While adjustments have been made, the goal of maintaining a cleaner environment remains unchanged.
Sanwo-Olu pointed out that the condition of drainage channels, markets, and public spaces highlights the need for regular sanitation efforts. He stressed that residents must take responsibility for the environment they share, especially in a large and dynamic city like Lagos.
The Governor added that the reintroduction of the sanitation exercise would help revive environmental consciousness among residents. He encouraged communities to work together in sustaining the cleanliness of their surroundings.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, described the return of the monthly sanitation exercise as a significant step towards improving the well-being of residents.
Wahab explained that the initiative aligns with the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Lagos State Government, which prioritises creating a clean, safe, and sustainable environment for residents. The agenda also focuses on ensuring that Lagos remains a livable and organised city.
He encouraged residents to clean their homes, streets, and drainage systems during the sanitation exercise.
He added that officials of the Lagos Waste Management Authority would be available to collect and properly dispose of waste generated during the exercise.
The Commissioner further noted that the programme also aims to educate residents on the importance of environmental responsibility. He urged Lagosians to adopt proper waste disposal habits and consistently maintain cleanliness in their communities.
According to Wahab, protecting the environment requires continuous efforts from both the government and residents. Regular sanitation activities, he said, will contribute to keeping the city flood-free and improving the overall quality of life for residents.
He concluded that the state government remains committed to developing effective strategies to maintain a clean environment. Through sustained community participation and proper waste management, Lagos aims to create a healthier and more sustainable environment for present and future generations.
