SANWO-OLU: Beyond prosecuting environmental sanitation violators
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s recent address on environmental sanitation and sustainability initiatives in Lagos State underscores a critical call to action amidst growing environmental challenges. His strong stance on improving cleanliness and combatting environmental degradation aligns with urgent global efforts to mitigate climate change and preserve our natural resources.
Speaking on the occasion, the governor called for the cooperation of all residents and stakeholders in making the exercise a success.
He said: “Cleanliness is next to Godliness. We cannot fold our arms and see our environment debased. Our hospitals are full of patients due to our unhygienic environment caused by the carefree attitude of residents.
“From what we have seen during monitoring of the environment earlier in the morning, it is unacceptable the level of environmental nuisance such as indiscriminate dumping of refuse in canals, removal of manholes on the road being perpetrated by some undesirable elements.
“It is a shame that our people engage in this act, vandalising public utilities despite the government’s efforts and huge funding. These people do not deserve to be among us.
“The Ministry of the Environment will set up gangs that will be saddled with the task of addressing the situation while environmental offenders will face the full weight of the law if caught.
“The era of uncleanliness is over in Lagos, that’s why we are flagging off this sensitization, advocacy campaign today from Lagos Island. This must start from homes, schools, markets, and offices.
CSR REPORTERS notes that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s emphasis on planting over 20,000 trees in the next year is a significant step towards enhancing the city’s green cover and combating urban heat island effects. Trees play a crucial role in sequestering carbon dioxide, improving air quality, and providing habitat for biodiversity. By encouraging tree planting, the governor is promoting a sustainable urban ecosystem that benefits both current and future generations.
However, while the tree-planting initiative is commendable, sustainable environmental management requires a holistic approach beyond afforestation. The governor rightly acknowledges the need for collective responsibility, stressing that government efforts alone cannot solve environmental challenges. Effective waste management, reduction of plastic pollution, and preservation of water bodies like canals are equally critical aspects that demand concerted action from all stakeholders.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s call to prosecute environmental offenders sends a strong message about accountability and adherence to environmental laws. It underscores the seriousness with which the state regards environmental stewardship and serves as a deterrent against irresponsible actions that degrade the environment.
Moreover, the governor’s recognition that environmental cleanliness is linked to public health underscores an understanding of the interconnectedness of environmental and human well-being. Clean surroundings reduce the incidence of waterborne diseases and respiratory ailments, thereby improving overall public health outcomes.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s renewed commitment to environmental sustainability through tree planting, sanitation campaigns, and enforcement of environmental laws is a commendable step towards creating a greener, cleaner Lagos. However, sustained success will depend on continuous public education, active participation from residents and businesses, and robust enforcement of environmental regulations. This multifaceted approach is essential to achieving a resilient and sustainable environment that benefits not just Lagosians but the Nigerians as a whole.
