The Lagos State Government ordered the reopening of Mile 12 International Market on Monday after it was closed on Friday.
The market, which was sealed along with Owode Onirin Market for various environmental infractions, was reopened for business activities on Monday.
Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, stated that the market was reopened following a comprehensive assessment. The study evaluated environmental compliance, waste management practices, and overall market cleanliness.
He stated that problems essential to the environment, public health, and safety were non-negotiable since the government would not stand by passively as those principles were compromised and destroyed by the actions of a few people.
“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 preconditions for reopening shut markets, the Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate reopening of Mile 12 International Market.
“In spite of several advocacy efforts 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.
He asked the vendors to follow the laws of acceptable standards, emphasizing hygiene for their own and the public’s health.
He emphasized that the government will not hesitate to shut down any market that returns to its old, filthy methods.
Speaking on the reopening, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), stated that the Authority is devoted to environmental sustainability and public safety, particularly around market facilities in the state.
“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 and disposal, employment of waste policing, bin keepers, and payment for waste services, among others.” Gbadegesin.
The LAWMA boss urged market traders to adhere strictly to the state’s environmental rules in order to create a cleaner and healthier environment for both dealers and their clients.
