Lagos: The Wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. (Mrs) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has emphasized the need for effective waste management strategies in Lagos marketplaces to promote a cleaner environment and enhance the living conditions for residents. This call to action was made during a one-day Seminar on Market Sanitisation and Security for Market Leaders, held at the Sabo Ultra-Modern Market in Yaba Local Council Development Area.
According to Voice of Nigeria, the seminar was organized by the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO) in collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development. The event aimed to educate market leaders on preventive measures against potential hazards in the markets. Mrs. Sanwo-Olu reiterated the importance of maintaining hygiene, safety, and security in marketplaces and highlighted the ongoing initiatives by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to enhance market sanitation and safety.
Mrs. Sanwo-Olu pointed out that markets are crucial t
o the economy, providing essential goods and services, but they pose environmental and health risks if waste management guidelines are not followed. She warned of the severe consequences of poor waste management, such as food and water contamination and pollution, and urged adherence to state guidelines to transform waste into a resource. She stressed that achieving the vision of a 21st-century economy for Lagos hinges on proper waste disposal and recycling practices.
The First Lady emphasized the state’s commitment to improving waste management through the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), which has been instrumental in providing waste bins, recycling facilities, and ensuring efficient waste collection and disposal. The seminar’s theme, “Improving Waste Management and Public Health in Markets: A Recipe for Economic Growth and Prosperity in Lagos Central Senatorial District,” underscores the importance Lagos State places on public health as a key factor in economic development.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu assu
red attendees of the government’s plans to enhance market infrastructure and conduct training and advocacy seminars to enforce market regulations and standards. She also urged residents to support the government’s efforts to establish hygienic and secure markets.
In his address, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, Mr. Bolaji Kayode Robert, noted that ongoing advocacy has led to a reduction in market fire outbreaks over the past five years. Represented by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Robert highlighted the significance of promoting hygiene and proper sanitation in marketplaces and recognized Mrs. Sanwo-Olu’s dedication to educating market stakeholders on waste-to-wealth conversion and safety practices.
In his goodwill message, Yaba Local Council Development Area Chairman, Mr. Kayode Omiyale, praised the First Lady’s efforts to improve market environments and affirmed the council’s commitment to enhancing market facilities to international standards.
The event featured facilitator presentations on market security, information management, and fire safety, and concluded with prize presentations to primary school children involved in an art competition.