Lagos State government has ordered the immediate reopening of Ladipo Market in Mushin and Mile 12 International Market, having complied with environmental standards and safety measures earlier listed as precondition for reopening shut markets
The state government, while announcing the reopening of the markets, said they have met the most critical conditions that bordered on the environment and public health.
It said they were also expediting action on other necessary areas, in line with the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources observation.
The commissioner for the environment and water resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, said the markets were reopened after a thorough assessment, covering environmental compliance, waste management practices, and general cleanliness within the market, involving a collaborative efforts of LAWMA and the market stakeholders.
He said issues critical to the environment, public health and safety, were non-negotiable, as the government would not watch helplessly as those values were compromised and eroded by the conduct of a few people.
“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, affect the generality of the people,’’ he said.
The managing director/chief executive officer of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reiterated the authority’s commitment to environmental sustainability and public safety, especially around market facilities in the state.
He said, “The temporary closure of Mile 12 Market was essential to address observed environmental issues. Our aim is to ensure that all markets in Lagos, including Mile 12, operate in line with environmental regulations, creating a safer and healthier trading environment for everyone involved.’’
