The Lagos State Government has called on private businesses to support its sanitation drive by making their restrooms accessible to the public, as part of efforts to curb open defecation and improve hygiene standards across the state.
The appeal was made by the Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a statement shared via his official X account. He noted that the government has already provided 1,710 public toilets across strategic locations but emphasised that broader collaboration is required to meet growing demand and ensure accessibility.
“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.”
Wahab also reiterated the state’s commitment to enforcing environmental sanitation laws, stressing that authorities will continue to take action against offenders.
“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.
Access to sanitation is a shared responsibility. While government continues to expand infrastructure, residents and businesses must also play their part in ensuring Lagos remains clean, safe, and habitable.”
The state government maintained that improving sanitation requires a collective effort, urging residents and business owners to take greater responsibility in supporting initiatives aimed at keeping Lagos clean and habitable.
Ademide Adebayo
