By Mercy InyenAbasi Etim
Anyone who understands the demands of governing a mega city like Lagos knows that one of the biggest challenges her leaders will face in office is keeping the metropolitan city clean and safe.
This is paramount because, although Lagos is the smallest state in Nigeria, it is the bustling commercial capital of Africa’s most populous country, home to over 26 million people.
Lagos serves as Nigeria’s primary economic hub, contributing over 20% the nation’s GDP. The city boast of critical infrastructures such as the Oil Refinery, the Sea Ports, numerous commercial and financial institutions, and major corporations. It has also emerged as a central information and telecommunications hub, positioning itself as the most “globalized” city in West and Central Africa.
In addition to its economic significance, Lagos attracts thousands of Nigerians daily, drawn by the promise of new opportunities and prosperity. However, with nearly a quarter of its area covered by water, Lagos State faces challenges such as flooding and water-related crises, further complicating the task of maintaining a clean and safe environment.
Thankfully, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, recognizing the importance of cleanliness and environmental sustainability for Lagosians, has prioritized these issues since his election campaign, a commitment underscored in his THEMES AGENDA.
Among his initial actions upon assuming office was the signing of an Executive Order aimed at enhancing sanitation and cleaning drainages throughout Lagos State. Since then, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration has consistently pursued various programs and initiatives through the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to achieve ambitious environmental goals.
A pivotal initiative launched by LAWMA under Sanwo-Olu’s leadership is the Blue Box program, later evolving into the Lagos Recycle Initiative. This initiative encourages residents to separate waste at the source for recycling, significantly reducing indiscriminate dumping and plastic pollution. Massive media campaigns have complemented these efforts, educating the public on the importance of responsible waste disposal and maintaining clean drainages, thereby transforming Lagos’s environmental landscape.
Governor Sanwo-Olu has also strategically enhanced collaboration between Private Sector Participants (PSP) and LAWMA, resulting in cleaner streets and the creation of numerous jobs. LAWMA’s capacity to manage waste has been bolstered by increased landfill trips and the engagement of additional waste collection vendors, enhancing overall efficiency and cleanliness across the state.
Under Sanwo-Olu’s stewardship, Lagos State has made substantial strides in flood mitigation. The maintenance and dredging of primary channels spanning multiple Local Government Areas have been prioritized, alongside rehabilitation efforts on over 16 secondary channels. Additionally, construction is underway for 44 new collector drains at various locations, further shoring up the city’s infrastructure against flooding.
In 2023, Governor Sanwo-Olu appointed Tokunbo Wahab as Commissioner of the Environment and Water Resources, a strategic move aimed at consolidating and advancing Lagos’s environmental agenda. Wahab, known for his passion, pragmatism, and discipline, has played a pivotal role in translating Sanwo-Olu’s vision into tangible environmental improvements.
Tokunbo Wahab, much like Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, exemplifies a fearless approach to decision-making, guided strictly by the law and the pursuit of environmental sustainability. His swift actions, such as the immediate ban on styrofoam boxes and single-use plastics, alongside the demolition of unlawfully constructed buildings on water channels underscore his commitment to enforcing regulations crucial for a cleaner and safer Lagos.
Wahab’s approach continues to foster a healthy and sustainable environment that supports tourism, drives economic growth. His leadership is characterized by a resolute focus on achieving these objectives, driven by intention rather than emotion, all for the greater good of the city.
From enhancing weather forecasting and educating residents about government initiatives to removing health hazards, illegal structures, and shanties, his initiatives have significantly improved the city’s environmental landscape. Efforts to clean waterways and coastal regions have also bolstered water transportation infrastructure, furthering Lagos’s reputation as a model of urban environmental management.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership mirrors this dedication, demonstrating concerted efforts to ensure Lagos remains safe, clean, and habitable for its residents and businesses alike. His administration’s proactive stance on environmental issues sets a precedent for sustainable urban development, reinforcing Lagos’s status as a leading global city committed to environmental stewardship and citizen’s well-being.
