The wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has called on residents across the state to make environmental sanitation a daily habit, stressing that personal responsibility is essential to preventing flooding, disease outbreaks, and maintaining a cleaner environment.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu made the appeal while speaking at an environmental sanitation awareness programme, where she emphasized that keeping homes, streets, drainage channels, and public spaces clean should not be limited to government-led sanitation exercises but should become part of the daily lifestyle of every resident.
She noted that indiscriminate disposal of refuse, blockage of drainage systems, and poor waste management remain major contributors to flooding during the rainy season. According to her, residents must support the government’s efforts by properly disposing of waste and ensuring that gutters and waterways remain free of debris.
The governor’s wife also warned that poor sanitation increases the risk of diseases such as cholera, malaria, typhoid, and other infections, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. She urged families, community leaders, market associations, and religious organisations to educate members on the importance of maintaining clean surroundings.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to environmental sustainability through improved waste management, public enlightenment campaigns, and continuous investment in sanitation infrastructure. However, she stressed that government efforts alone would not be sufficient without the active participation of residents.
She encouraged Lagosians to cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility by avoiding illegal dumping of refuse, patronising approved waste disposal operators, and participating in community clean-up activities.
According to her, a cleaner Lagos will not only reduce the incidence of flooding and prevent disease outbreaks but also improve public health, protect the environment, and enhance the overall quality of life for everyone living and working in the state.
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