The Lagos State Government has officially declared the reopening of the Alaba International Market and several markets within the Trade Fair Complex in Ojo, following the resolution of environmental concerns and infractions that necessitated their closure.
Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, emphasized that the decision to close the markets was not politically motivated but driven by the urgent need to uphold healthy environmental practices.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Wahab clarified the government’s commitment to maintaining stringent environmental standards across all business operations within the state.
He stated, “The decision to reopen the markets follows a rigorous assessment and implementation of stringent environmental standards. These standards were set to guarantee that businesses in the state operate in a manner that is not detrimental to the environment and the well-being of people.”
The Lagos government underscored its unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability and emphasized that any market found in violation of the prescribed standards would be subject to closure.
“I want to state emphatically that the closure of those markets has no ethnic or political motives behind it, as it was done to ensure cleanliness and environmental sustainability for the good of all residents,” Wahab reiterated.
Furthermore, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), stressed the imperative need for waste management compliance within the markets.
Gbadegesin outlined key expectations for market operators, including proper waste containment practices, prohibition of open burning, and cessation of waste dumping in drainage channels.
“We have standards that each market in the state has to comply with, to make our business environment clean and healthy for both buyers and sellers,” Gbadegesin emphasized.
“Engagement of market policing personnel to monitor the sanitation of the market, setbacks, medians and its surroundings to avoid indiscriminate dumping and apprehend violators.”
Market operators and residents were urged to demonstrate unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability, highlighting the significant role they play in ensuring the continued operation of these vital commercial spaces.
