The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) is partnering with the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) to eliminate open defecation along the Lagos/Ibadan expressway.
In a statement on X by Tokunbo Wahab, the Lagos State Commissioner for the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, it was noted that the joint media campaign specifically focuses on the stretch from OPIC Plaza to Otedola Bridge.
The campaign aims to improve public health and environmental sustainability by curbing the spread of cholera and other communicable diseases. It also seeks to restore the aesthetic appeal of this crucial corridor, which serves as a gateway to Lagos.
The initiative is led by Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of LASEPA, who emphasized the need to raise awareness among residents about the health hazards of open defecation. He pointed out the risks of cholera and other waterborne diseases, particularly during the rainy season when water contamination is more likely.
To maintain the campaign’s effectiveness, Dr. Ajayi outlined plans to involve key stakeholders in monitoring the area for violations. “We will collaborate with local governments, Environmental Health Officers, market women, and law enforcement agencies to monitor the area and report any violations for legal action,” he stated.
Dr. Oluwadare Kehinde, Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Environmental Protection Matters, praised LASEPA for leading the initiative. He stressed the importance of inter-state cooperation in addressing environmental challenges, saying, “This initiative sets a strong example of how we can work together to tackle shared issues.”
He also mentioned that Ogun State is working with international organizations to build more public toilets, with the goal of eradicating open defecation entirely.
This joint campaign by Lagos and Ogun states represents a proactive approach to combating open defecation and enhancing public health, demonstrating both governments’ commitment to creating a cleaner, healthier environment.
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