The Lagos State Government has called on residents, market vendors, artisans, non-governmental organizations, and commercial establishments to prioritize environmental cleanliness to prevent the spread of diseases.
This appeal was made by Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser on Environment to the Governor, during the commemoration of the 2024 World Clean-up Day at Bada Community in Oshodi/Isolo Local Government Area.
Rotimi-Akodu emphasized the importance of residents continuing the clean-up exercise voluntarily, highlighting that good sanitation practices are a collective responsibility, not just an individual or governmental one.
The event, themed “Make Room for Life,” is part of a global initiative to promote environmental cleanliness. Rotimi-Akodu stressed that residents should make cleanliness a habit and refrain from blaming the government for floods, which can be exacerbated by poor sanitation practices.
He also noted that a dirty environment can lead to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea, malaria, and typhoid. The government’s efforts to promote sanitation and hygiene are ongoing, with plans to continue the advocacy campaign across the state to ensure residents understand the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
According to Rotimi-Akodu, “Good Sanitation practices are not an individual responsibility, but a collective responsibility for everyone to take action. Residents cannot continue to accuse the government whereas they continually dump their waste in drainages. This is why this event is a clarion call for all to embrace good sanitation habits.
“Dirty environments promote the spread of diseases such as diarrhoea, malaria, typhoid, and so the government is doing this clean up to encourage residents to regular.”
Every September 20, the world comes together to prioritize environmental cleanliness as part of the United Nations’ World Clean-up Day. According to Dr. Hassan Sanuth, Director of Sanitation Services, this global initiative aims to promote thorough cleaning and sanitation of our environment.
The United Nations General Assembly has designated the day through Resolution 78/122, to promote global awareness on the crucial role of cleanup efforts in achieving sustainable development.
This day encourages individuals, communities, and nations to take collective action towards reducing waste pollution and fostering a cleaner, healthier environment. The UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT) plays a key facilitative role in observing this day.
By participating in World Cleanup Day, individuals can contribute to a global movement towards a cleaner, more sustainable future.
In Lagos, Nigeria, for instance, the state government has been actively participating in World Clean-up Day, organizing sensitization campaigns and clean-up exercises to engage residents and promote good hygiene behaviours.
