The Lagos State Government has joined the global community in commemorating the 2026 World Environment Day, calling on residents to take collective responsibility for protecting the environment and ensuring a cleaner, healthier state.
The annual event, observed worldwide, is aimed at raising awareness on environmental protection and encouraging actions that safeguard natural resources for present and future generations.
Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said in a post on his X handle on Friday that the state remains committed to sustainable environmental management through sanitation exercises, waste management reforms, enforcement of environmental laws, and public enlightenment campaigns.
“As one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities, Lagos remains committed to sustainable environmental practices through continuous sanitation exercises, waste management reforms, environmental enforcement, and public enlightenment campaigns aimed at creating a cleaner, healthier, and safer society,” he said.
Wahab stressed that environmental protection requires active participation from all segments of society, including individuals, business owners, market operators, and community leaders.
He described this year’s commemoration as a reminder that environmental responsibility is a shared duty that must be embraced at all levels.
“This year’s commemoration serves as a reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. Every resident, business owner, market operator, and community leader has a vital role to play in maintaining a clean environment,” he stated.
Residents were urged to adopt proper waste disposal practices and avoid activities such as blocking drainage channels and indiscriminate dumping of refuse.
The government noted that enforcement actions against environmental violations are ongoing across the state, with relevant agencies intensifying efforts to maintain urban cleanliness and public health standards.
“The Lagos State Government, through its relevant agencies and environmental stakeholders, continues to intensify efforts against illegal dumpsites, street trading, open defecation, and other environmental infractions that threaten public health and urban sustainability,” the statement added.
Authorities also called on residents to support government initiatives by embracing sanitation, recycling, and environmental discipline in their communities.
“We urge all residents to support government initiatives by promoting cleanliness, sanitation, recycling, and environmental discipline across our communities,” Wahab said.
He reaffirmed that sustained collective effort is essential to achieving a sustainable and livable city.
“Together, we can build a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable Lagos for all,” he added.
The state government reiterated its commitment to strengthening environmental policies and enforcement as part of broader efforts to improve quality of life in Nigeria’s commercial hub.
