In a proactive move towards ensuring environmental compliance and prioritizing public health, the Lagos State Government has officially reopened the Mile 12 International Market.
The decision to reopen the market comes after an extensive assessment conducted by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab.
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The comprehensive assessment encompassed a range of vital factors, including environmental compliance, waste management practices, and overall cleanliness within the market. This meticulous evaluation reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to maintaining environmental standards, safeguarding public health, and enhancing safety within the market premises.
Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab underscored the government’s firm stance on issues concerning the environment, public health, and safety. He emphasized that these values are non-negotiable and cannot be compromised 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 general public,” he stated.
The decision to reopen Mile 12 International Market followed the fulfillment of stringent environmental standards and safety requirements that were set as prerequisites for reopening markets. Commissioner Wahab also made it clear that this enforcement would be an ongoing process, as the government is committed to maintaining market operations while ensuring they adhere to environmental guidelines.
He urged traders to adopt and maintain acceptable standards, with a strong focus on hygiene for their well-being and that of the public. The government is resolute in its stance that any market that returns to unhygienic practices will be shut down promptly.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), stressed LAWMA’s dedication to environmental sustainability and public safety around market facilities. He highlighted the temporary closure of Mile 12 Market as an essential step to address observed environmental concerns.
LAWMA worked closely with Mile 12 Market traders and associations to implement corrective actions, including the placement of disposal bins, proper waste collection, employment of waste policing, bin keepers, and payment for waste services. This collaborative approach is intended to create a cleaner, safer, and healthier trading environment for everyone involved.
Traders at the reopened market have been encouraged to wholeheartedly adhere to the state’s environmental laws, thereby fostering a cleaner and healthier environment for both themselves and their customers.
It’s important to note that the temporary closure of Mile 12 Market, as well as Owode Onirin Market, was in response to various environmental infractions, demonstrating the government’s commitment to ensuring environmental standards are maintained.