Lagos, October 16, 2023 — The Lagos State Government has officially ordered the reopening of the Mile 12 International Market, which had been temporarily sealed on Friday. The decision to reopen the market was announced by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, after a thorough assessment of various aspects of environmental compliance, waste management practices, and general cleanliness within the market.
Commissioner Wahab emphasized that issues concerning the environment, public health, and safety are of paramount importance and should not be compromised. He underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring that environmental values are upheld and not eroded by the actions of a few individuals.
“We cannot continue to be nonchalant about our environment. Our negative attitude towards the environment must stop. The way we treat the environment is the way the environment treats us. We cannot fold our arms and allow the nonchalance of a few to affect the generality of the people,” Wahab stated.
He also made it clear that the government’s enforcement of environmental standards and safety measures is non-negotiable. While acknowledging that the government does not delight in shutting down markets, he stressed that the enforcement exercises will continue as needed.
Addressing the traders, Wahab urged them to adhere to acceptable standards and prioritize hygiene for the sake of their health and that of the public. He warned that the government would not hesitate to close down any market that returns to unsanitary practices.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), also spoke about the reopening. He affirmed LAWMA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and public safety, particularly in and around market facilities.
Gbadegesin explained the necessity of the temporary closure of Mile 12 Market to address environmental concerns. He shared that corrective actions had been taken in collaboration with Mile 12 Market traders and associations. These actions included the placement of disposal bins, improved waste collection and disposal methods, employment of waste policing personnel, bin keepers, and the initiation of payment for waste services.
The LAWMA CEO urged traders at the market to fully comply with the state’s environmental laws to create a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone, including both traders and customers.
It’s worth noting that the Mile 12 International Market, along with Owode Onirin Market, had been sealed due to various environmental infractions.