The Lagos State Government has reopened Mile 12 International Market after it was sealed on Friday.
It was gathered on Friday by our correspondent that the directive of the Lagos State Government, which ordered the immediate closure of Mile 12 International Market and Owode Onirin Market over filth and other environmental infractions.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said in a statement on Monday, said that Mile 12 International Market was reopened after a thorough assessment covering various aspects of environmental compliance, waste management practices, and general cleanliness within the market.
“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 generality of the people.
“Following full compliance with environmental standards and safety measures earlier listed as a precondition for reopening shut markets, the Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate reopening of Mile 12 International Market.
“In spite of several advocacy and public Enlightenment, the government is left with no choice but to enforce. The enforcement exercise will be a continuous one, as no government takes delight in shutting down markets,” Wahab said
On his part, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, 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.
“We worked closely with Mile 12 Market traders and associations to implement corrective actions, including placement of dino bins, proper waste collection, disposal, employment of waste policing, bin keepers and payment for waste services, among others