The Lagos State Government on Monday reopened Mile 12 International Market after it was sealed on Friday, October 13, 2023.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who announced the re-opening today, said the reopening of the markets followed full assessment, covering various aspects of environmental compliance, waste management practices, and general cleanliness within the market.
He said: “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 the nonchalance of a few to affect the generality of the people.
“Following full compliance with environmental standards and safety measures earlier listed as a precondition for reopening shut markets, the Lagos State Government has ordered the immediate reopening of Mile 12 International Market.
“Despite several advocacies 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.”
Also speaking at the reopening of the Mile 12 market, Muyiwa Gbadegesin the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority, 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. We aim 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,” he added.
They further urged the traders to play by the rules of acceptable standards, putting a premium on hygiene for their health and that of the public.
