The Lagos State Government has announced the reopening of Mile 12 International Market after it was sealed on Friday.
Recall that the market was sealed along with Owode Onirin Market for sundry environmental infractions.
But on Monday, October 16, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, the Environment and Water Resources Commissioner announced that the market has reopened following an extensive evaluation that looked at many facets of environmental compliance, waste management procedures, and general cleanliness within the market.
He stated that matters crucial to the environment, public health, and safety were non-negotiable because the government would not stand by passively as the actions of a select few undermined these principles.
“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 a few’s nonchalance to affect people’s generality.
“Following full compliance with environmental standards and safety measures earlier listed as a precondition for reopening shut markets, the Lagos State Government has ordered immediate Mile 12 International Market reopening.
“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
He urged the traders to play by the rules of acceptable standards, putting a premium on hygiene for their health and that of the public, stressing that the government will not shy away from shutting down any market that returns to old filthy ways.
Also speaking on the reopening, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said that the Authority is committed to environmental sustainability and public safety, especially 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, disposal, employment of waste policing, bin keepers and payment for waste services, among others,” Gbadegesin
The LAWMA boss charged traders at the market to show total commitment to the state’s environmental laws to pave the way for a cleaner and healthier environment for both the traders and their customers.
