Wale Jagun
The Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area has commenced a renewed push for environmental responsibility, as he galvanised stakeholders across the LCDA, to support the reintroduction of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise.
To achieve this, the council, under the leadership of Omo’ba Hameed Aroyewun, organised a sensitisation/advocacy to mobilise stakeholders towards the initiative which is critical to public health and sustainable community living, and was re – introduced by the Lagos State Government, as it commences on Saturday, April 25.
At the well-attended sensitisation and advocacy on Tuesday, held at the Council’s Multipurpose Hall, government officials, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders aligned on a common goal: restoring environmental discipline and reversing the decline in sanitation standards across the LCDA.
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman, the Vice Chairman, Barr. Ade Ayeni, stressed the urgency of collective action in tackling environmental challenges. He announced that the sanitation exercise will now take place on the last Saturday of every month, between 6:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., beginning this Saturday, 25th April, and stressed that the initiative is not merely routine, but essential to safeguarding lives.
He drew attention to the growing risks associated with poor waste management, including the spread of preventable diseases such as cholera, while calling on residents to adopt responsible disposal practices. He urged households and businesses to register with Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators, and warned against indiscriminate refuse dumping.
He also revealed ongoing collaboration with the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to strengthen waste collection systems across the LCDA.
Beyond sanitation, stakeholders were encouraged to maintain clean markets and roadsides, operate within designated transport parks, and embrace broader environmental initiatives such as tree planting, reinforcing a culture of shared responsibility.
Community leaders, who spoke at the engagement, echoed strong support for the initiative.
Chief (Mrs.) Karimat Ojikutu, Iyalode of Igbogbo Kingdom, charged market women to sustain and deepen sanitation practices within trading environments, while Chief Aniyikaye Paul, Baale Dehinde, called for full community cooperation.
The CDC Secretary, Comrade Yahya Ogunsanwo, noted that environmental standards had declined following the suspension of the exercise, and emphasised the need for renewed commitment from residents.
Representing LAWMA, Mr. Matthew Ayedokun reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to support the council through intensified waste management operations and public awareness campaigns.
Contributions from community stakeholders, including Pastor Ogunrinde Samson, CDA Chairman Zone 1, and Alhaja Asake Wahab, Iyaloja General of Igbogbo, further reinforced grassroots readiness to drive compliance. Chief Deoye Obayomi of the NURTW acknowledged operational challenges, but pledged the union’s support, particularly in ensuring adherence within transport corridors.
In his closing remarks, the Council Manager, Otunba Afolabi Babatunde, affirmed that the reintroduced sanitation exercise has full institutional backing, noting that compliance measures will be enforced to ensure effectiveness and sustainability.
Also in attendance were the Chief of Staff, Hon. Wasiu Olowu; Supervisor for Works, Engr. Ahmed Abdulai; Chief Whip of the Legislative Council, Hon. Princess Saidat Adeoba; Deputy Leader, Hon. Akeem Adewale; Chief Banjoko, Baale Igbelara; Obas-in-Council (represented by Chief Aniyikaye, Baale Dehinde); former APC Chairman, Pastor Aiyetoba; as well as members of the council’s management team.
