As heavy rainfall intensifies leading to flash floods, Lagos State Government on Tuesday renewed its warning to owners of all structures on drainage alignments and setbacks to please relocate to higher grounds.
The State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello in a statement on Tuesday said many of such buildings have already been marked in Mende, Maryland and Aboru in Alimosho for contraventions on drainage alignments and may soon be demolished.
He added that it is regrettable that after several of such warnings, the residents of the areas have refused to move but would rather resort to cheap blackmail of having nowhere to relocate to.
Bello, who spoke against the background of a viral video of some people being rescued in Mende, emphasized that the area is a lowlying flood plain as attested to by the ODS markings on all the buildings in the viral video just as it is the drainage route for all the water coming from Agindigbi, Oregun, Opebi, Allen, GRA, Maryland up to Ogudu Foreshore.
He said now is the time for the residents of all such areas in the state to hearken to the voice of reason by relocating to safeguard lives and properties.
While pleading for calm from all residents, he stated that the drainages have the capacity to contain water runoff when the rain stops just as it is happening already.
Bello said the heavy torrential rainfall which started in the early hours of Monday and still continued on Tuesday afternoon has caused flash floods in many areas.
He reiterated his assurance that a minimum of four hours after the rainfall ceases, the water level in the lagoon will go down, allowing water from major collectors to flow into it and enabling all flood water that may have inundated our roads and streets to leave the streets.
He stated that one constant factor that should be borne in mind always about Lagos is that it is a coastal city with over one third of its land mass under water.
Bello said part of the proactive measures which the state has embraced is the all year round cleaning, clearing and outright construction of drainage channels that have increased their capacity to contain water and silt.
He said the measure has helped in mitigating the effects the flash floods would have had on lives and properties.
He said additionally, men of quick rapid response drainage team named Emergency Flood Abatement Gang (EFAG) have continued to clean dark spots and free manholes across all primary, secondary and tertiary drains.
He said going by the rainfall projections advisory issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Services NIMET early in the year, Lagos was projected to be among the moderately projected to be affected by flooding this year.
He reiterated the dangers inherent in people wadding through floods especially with high currents during rainfalls, warning that people and vehicles could be swept away in such situations.
Signed Kunle Adeshina Dir. (Public Affairs) 13th of September, 2022
Lagos State Government on Tuesday convened the 9th edition of the Climate Change Summit, advocating higher investment by everyone in the realization of the Climate Action Plan.
This position was espoused by the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who spoke through his Deputy, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat at the Continental Hotel, VI, said the State Action Plan launched last year has started reaping great and impactful rewards, saying that Government, has instituted several adaptation programmes to ensure that citizens are shielded from the effects of Climate Change.
Permanent Secretary Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Engr. Lekan Shodeinde, his counterpart in Office of Environmental Services, Omobola Gaji, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Mrs, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, representative of Lagos State Governor and Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat Honourable Commissioner for The Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello, Chairman (APC) Lagos State, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Special Adviser on Drainage and Water Resources Engr. Joe Igbokwe and Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU) Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, at the Lagos State, 9th International Climate Change Summit opening ceremony held on 2nd of August 2022, at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
“In just a year, the Lagos Climate Action Plan has started to reap great rewards, an example of such is the recently awarded grant to Lagos State Waterways Authority to improve the State’s ferry services to provide a multi-model transport network for Lagos thereby reducing commuters and greenhouse gas emissions associated with on-road transportation” he emphasized.
Sanwo-Olu said the State understands the symbiosis between the effects of climate change and the persistence of violence against women and as such has identified several adaptation initiatives to address gender-specific impacts.
“We are in constant discussion with our development partners and donor organizations to find solutions and ways to better adapt to climate impacts especially as it affects women, children, and people with disabilities in terms of provision of water; food security; energy and healthcare services,” he said.
He added that the collaboration cannot go far without the engagement and tangible actions of the private sector because they are critical players in the climate action space, saying the two parties can mobilize public and private sector finance to drive the net-zero transition.
The Governor implored participants to look critically into sectors such as Waste, Transportation, Energy, Housing and Food systems for the proper economic dimension, meeting global environmental and social standards and ecosystem restoration targets.
According to him: “Global climate change is not a future problem. It is affecting every country in every continent. It is disrupting national economies and affecting lives, costing people, communities and countries dearly”.
He cited the example of the United Kingdom which has been experiencing increased temperature, resulting into wildfires across the country with attendant loss of several farmlands, homes and livelihood of individuals, adding that wildfires in California, the United States of America and other terrible natural disasters happening in China, India, Turkey and Australia, are indications that climate change impact knows no boundaries.
He reiterated that Lagos being a littoral state is often inundated by flash floods due to an increase in sea level rise but soon disappears after few hours as compared to other affected States in the Nation.
He reaffirmed that both the public and private sectors in Lagos must adopt the Lagos Climate Action Plan with the aim of incorporating plan, programme and actions that will set Lagos on a pathway for carbon neutrality and increased adaptation for her populace.
He said that Climate action and sustainability have to be integrated at the heart of growth strategies, investment plans and institutional structures to facilitate the flow of public and private finance.
“As a frontline State, we are always looking at making things better. That is why my government will be supporting the Youth also to drive this Change. The Youth have a central role of driving innovative climate technologies to adapt to the impacts of climate change” he noted.
He revealed that this year’s event is featuring for the first time a Poster Competition for innovate solutions to tackle the impacts of Climate Change adding that come year 2023 at the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit, there is expectation that we will celebrate several grand innovative solutions to adapt to climate impacts.
According to him, The times ahead requires accelerating investments in sustainable infrastructure, supported by clear strategies and programme, this will be the central driver of the new growth approach.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resoures, Tunji Bello in his welcome address said this event over the years has served as a conveyor of opinions and suggestions on how to manage our planet against the deadly impact of Climate Change with special attention to our dear Lagos.
He said it has become more expedient for all parties, government, leaders of thought, organized private sector, and individuals to embark on deliberate and consistent efforts to combat the Climate Change crisis.
“There is a need for accelerated development and adoption of innovative climate technologies, likewise business models and financial mechanisms to support green economic growth,” he said.
He said the theme for this year’s summit “Integrating Climate Actions in Lagos State Development: Investment Opportunities and Trade-offs’’ demonstrates governments commitment to Climate Action and how new vistas of opportunities can be opened.
He said Government recognizes the impact of the organized private sector on economic growth in Lagos and the commitment of the Government to mainstream climate action in the next phase of the developmental agenda of Lagos State saying, it is an affirmative action in support of the role of the private sector in mitigating the effects of climate change.
He disclosed that, Lagos is the only State in the Country that has developed and commenced the implementation of her Climate Action Plan in Nigeria adding that the Plan highlighted 26 initiatives across adaptation and mitigation actions to advance a sustainable low carbon economy to achieve net zero by Year 2050.
He also disclosed that the State Government through the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has signed up to the £15m UKAID Climate Action Implementation Programme, which will support cities to accelerate the implementation from their Climate Action Plans (CAPs).
He emphasized that Lagos State is at an advanced stage of completing work on the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilient Plan (CARP) as the State prepares for the forthcoming Conference of Parties 27 (COP 27) in Egypt in November.
He added that this document will project the state’s need on the adaptation level and also serves as one of the bargaining documents for collaboration and support from International Donor Agencies and investors.
He noted that Climate Actions require significant investments and it is also a known fact that the economic cost of Climate Change far exceeds the cost of action adding that the Ministry is forward-looking with her collaborative efforts with the private sector in order to maximise the inherent benefits of climate action.
The 9th Lagos State Climate Change Summit which had in attendance Investors, Academia, Scientist, Environmental enthusiasts, Climate Change analysts, Students and other Stakeholders continues on Wednesday.
Lagos State Government on Tuesday convened the 9th edition of the Climate Change Summit, advocating higher investment by everyone in the realization of the Climate Action Plan.
This position was espoused by the State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who spoke through his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat at the Continental Hotel, VI, said the State Action Plan launched last year has started reaping great and impactful rewards, saying that Government, has instituted several adaptation programmes to ensure that citizens are shielded from the effects of Climate Change.
“In just a year, the Lagos Climate Action Plan has started to reap great rewards, an example of such is the recently awarded grant to Lagos State Waterways Authority to improve the State’s ferry services to provide a multi-model transport network for Lagos thereby reducing commuters and greenhouse gas emissions associated with on-road transportation” he emphasized.
L-R Permanent Secretary Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Engr. Lekan Shodeinde, his counterpart in Office of Environmental Services, Omobola Gaji, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Mrs, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, representative of Lagos State Governor and Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat Honourable Commissioner for The Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello, Chairman (APC) Lagos State, Pastor Cornelius Ojelabi, Special Adviser on Drainage and Water Resources Engr. Joe Igbokwe and Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU) Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, at the Lagos State, 9th International Climate Change Summit opening ceremony held on 2nd of August 2022, at Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu said the State understands the symbiosis between the effects of climate change and the persistence of violence against women and as such has identified several adaptation initiatives to address gender-specific impacts.
“We are in constant discussion with our development partners and donor organizations to find solutions and ways to better adapt to climate impacts especially as it affects women, children, and people with disabilities in terms of provision of water; food security; energy and healthcare services,” he said.
He added that the collaboration cannot go far without the engagement and tangible actions of the private sector because they are critical players in the climate action space, saying the two parties can mobilize public and private sector finance to drive the net-zero transition.
The Governor implored participants to look critically into sectors such as Waste, Transportation, Energy, Housing and Food systems for the proper economic dimension, meeting global environmental and social standards and ecosystem restoration targets.
According him: “Global climate change is not a future problem. It is affecting every country in every continent. It is disrupting national economies and affecting lives, costing people, communities and countries dearly”.
He cited the example of the United Kingdom which has been experiencing increased temperature, resulting in wildfires across the country with attendant loss of several farmlands, homes and livelihood of individuals, adding that wildfires in California, United States of America and other terrible natural disasters happening in China, India, Turkey and Australia, are indications that climate change impact knows no boundaries.
He reiterated that Lagos being a littoral state is often inundated by flash floods due to an increase in sea level rise but soon disappears after few hours as compared to other affected States in the Nation.
He reaffirmed that both the public and private sectors in Lagos must adopt the Lagos Climate Action Plan with the aim of incorporating plan, programme and actions that will set Lagos on a pathway for carbon neutrality and increased adaptation for her populace.
He said that Climate action and sustainability have to be integrated at the heart of growth strategies, investment plans and institutional structures to facilitate the flow of public and private finance.
“As a frontline State, we are always looking at making things better. That is why my government will be supporting the Youth also to drive this Change. The Youth have a central role of driving innovative climate technologies to adapt to the impacts of climate change” he noted.
He revealed that this year’s event is featuring for the first time a Poster Competition for innovate solutions to tackle the impacts of Climate Change adding that come year 2023 at the 10th Lagos International Climate Change Summit, there is expectation that we will celebrate several grand innovative solutions to adapt to climate impacts.
According to him, The times ahead requires accelerating investments in sustainable infrastructure, supported by clear strategies and programme, this will be the central driver of the new growth approach.
Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello in his welcome address said this event over the years has served as a conveyor of opinions and suggestions on how to manage our planet against the deadly impact of Climate Change with special attention to our dear Lagos.
He said it has become more expedient for all parties, government, leaders of thought, organized private sector and individuals to embark on deliberate and consistent efforts to combat the Climate Change crisis.
“There is a need for accelerated development and adoption of innovative climate technologies, likewise business models and financial mechanisms to support green economic growth,” he said.
He said the theme for this year’s summit “Integrating Climate Actions in Lagos State Development: Investment Opportunities and Trade-offs’’ demonstrates the government’s commitment to Climate Action and how new vistas of opportunities can be opened.
He said Government recognizes the impact of the organized private sector on economic growth in Lagos and the commitment of the Government to mainstream climate action in the next phase of the developmental agenda of Lagos State saying, it is affirmative action in support of the role of the private sector in mitigating the effects of climate change.
He disclosed that Lagos is the only State in the Country that has developed and commenced the implementation of her Climate Action Plan in Nigeria adding that the Plan highlighted 26 initiatives across adaptation and mitigation actions to advance a sustainable low carbon economy to achieve net zero by the Year 2050.
He also disclosed that the State Government through the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources has signed up to the £15m UKAID Climate Action Implementation Programme, which will support cities to accelerate the implementation from their Climate Action Plans (CAPs).
He emphasized that Lagos State is at an advanced stage of completing work on the Lagos Climate Adaptation and Resilient Plan (CARP) as the State prepares for the forthcoming Conference of Parties 27 (COP 27) in Egypt in November.
He added that this document will project the state’s need on the adaptation level and also serves as one of the bargaining documents for collaboration and support from International Donor Agencies and investors.
He noted that Climate Actions require significant investments and it is also a known fact that the economic cost of Climate Change far exceeds the cost of action adding that the Ministry is forward-looking with her collaborative efforts with the private sector in order to maximize the inherent benefits of climate action.
The 9th Lagos State Climate Change Summit which had in attendance Investors, Academia, Scientist, Environmental enthusiasts, Climate Change analysts, Students, and other Stakeholders continues on Wednesday.
As preparations peaked for the 9th Lagos Climate Change Summit, the State has expressed readiness to expand the scope of private sector partnership for a greener Lagos.
Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Engr. Lekan Shodeinde, Honourable Commissioner for The Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello, Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Omobolaji Gaji, and Consultant on Climate Change, Prof. Babajide Alo, during the Press conference in preparation for the Lagos 9th International Climate Change Summit, held on the 27th of July, at Ministry of The Environment and Water Resources conference room, Alausa, Ikeja.
Speaking at a pre-event media briefing at Alausa to herald the commencement of the Summit on Tuesday, August 2, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources Tunji Bello said better and faster result is expected from the collaboration.
He explained that the collaboration which has started from the conception and planning stage will get to the delivery of the mandates of the summit.
“This collaboration is in recognition of the impact of the organized private sector on economic growth in Lagos and our resolve to mainstream climate action in the next phase of the developmental agenda of Lagos State” he explained.
He highlighted that the theme for the summit “Integrating Climate Actions in Lagos State Development: Investment Opportunities and Trade-offs’’ demonstrates government’s commitment to Climate Action as a State and how new vistas of opportunities could be opened.
He said last year during the 8th Lagos Climate Change Summit, the government launched the Lagos Climate Action Plan which is aimed at charting a course towards achieving net zero emission in Lagos by the year 2050 which is achievable through the implementation of impact-oriented actions across major sectors of the economy.
He added that what this translates into is that the government have to accelerate the development of a green economy in the state by exploring innovative climate solutions and mobilizing necessary resources required to achieve this target.
He informed that Mr Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu will be the Special Guest of Honour at the 2022 Summit while the lead paper titled: ‘’Financing Transformative Climate Actions for Lagos State’’ will be delivered by Professor Chukwumerije Okereke, of the Center for Climate and Development, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike, Nigeria.
He appealed to all stakeholders, development partners, investors to join in the progress towards achieving a green and sustainable economic growth in Lagos.
Hide quoted text
SIGNED
KUNLE ADESHINA
DIRECTOR PUBLIC AFFAIRS, MOE&WR
As part of efforts to achieve an organised market as well as food security sustainability, the Lagos State Government has taken its market hygiene advocacy to market leaders.
Addressing Market Leaders during the maiden edition of a one-day sensitization programme for Market leaders held at Ifako ijaiye Local Government Secretariat, Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Omobolaji Gaji said the markets should be clean always, and a hygienic food handling process must be maintained to ensure socio-economic wellbeing.
L-R … Director, Environmental Health Unit, office of Environmental Services, Sanitarian Olaewe Adewale, Iyaloja General of Ifako-Ijaiye, Local Government, Chief Doyin Ogunbiyi, Representatives of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Chairman and Head Human Resources, Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, Princess Bisi Mariam, Representatives of Director Drainage Maintenance, and Assistant Director, Engr. Yetunde Okanlawon and Representatives of Permanent Secretary Office of Environmental Services and Deputy Director, Sanitation Service Mrs. Omoyemi Balogun, during the One day sensitization program on the Cleanliness of market and foods for market leaders in Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, Lagos State held on the 21st of July 2022, at Ifako-Ijaiye Local government hall, College road, Ogba, Lagos State.
Gaji said Lagos state had been the epicenter of diseases of public health importance since the 2014 Ebola case, Covid-19, Lassa fever and cholera establishing the associative link between the market environment, illnesses and diseases that threaten human existence.
The Permanent Secretary represented by Deputy Director Sanitation, Mrs Omoyeni Balogun observed that in the market environment there are social behaviours that impacts the aesthetic of the environment which includes improper display and storage of foods and food items, Indiscriminate dumping of refuse, adding that the emerging epidemic and pandemic threats that confront humanity have links to markets.
“Insanitary behaviours, Open defecation, littering and blocking the drainage system and more deface our markets and are threats to life and properties directly and indirectly” he said.
The Permanent Secretary said all foods items pass through the market environment and are exposed to both intrinsic and extrinsic high-risk factors of unhealthy practices in the market environment saying that the way food items are displayed can bring about contamination from environmental pollutants.
Gaji who frowned at indiscriminate refuse disposal under any guise reminded Lagosians especially market women and men to ensure that they sort their waste from the source saying that every stakeholder must be involved in the New environmental reforms.
In her welcome address, the representative of the Chairman Ifako Ijaiye Local Government Princess Mariam Bisi emphasized that Lagos is the economic hub of Nigeria, adding that the statement will not have any significant meaning without the market and stakeholders that monitor the market environment.
L-R … Director, Environmental Health Unit, office of Environmental Services, Sanitarian Olaewe Adewale, Iyaloja General of Ifako-Ijaiye,Local Government, Chief Doyin Ogunbiyi, Representatives of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Chairman and Head Human Resources, Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, Princess Bisi Mariam, Representatives of Director Drainage Maintenance, and Assistant Director, Engr. Yetunde Okanlawon and Representatives of Permanent Secretary Office of Environmental Services and Deputy Director, Sanitation Service Mrs. Omoyemi Balogun, during the One day sensitisation program on the Cleanliness of market and foods for market leaders in Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, Lagos State held on the 21st of July 2022, at Ifako-Ijaiye Local government hall, College road, Ogba, Lagos State.
She appealed to market leaders in the Local Government to shun street trading and restrict all trading activities to the market, stressing that it is in the interest of all to respect the Lagos State and Local Government environmental laws.
Participants at the Orientation programme include market Men and Women, Environmental Health Officers as well as local government officials.
Lectures were delivered during the workshop on Food Hygiene, monitoring and Control, Waste Management, Water Security and quality, Drainage and flooding, and Pest and Diseases control in the market environment.
SIGNED KUNLE ADESHINA DIRECTOR PUBLIC AFFAIRS, MOE&WR
The Lagos State Government on Tuesday engaged toilet operators across the state on the need to continually promote healthy sanitation practices in toilet management towards reducing open defecation to the barest minimum.
Speaking at the maiden edition of a One- day training workshop with the theme “Best Practices in Public Toilet Management” held at the JJT Park, Secretariat, Alausa, the director of Sanitation Services, Dr Hassan Sanuth Ikeja reiterated that the State Government is determined to eradicate the menace of open defecation by 2025.
PIX 3246: L- R : Director Sanitation Services, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Hassan Sanuth (right) presenting Certificate of Participation to Chairman Public Toilet Association Lagos State, Alhaji Omotunde Adenekan (middle) being assisted by Chief Operation Officer A- Mobile Group Academy, Mrs Damilola Oloruntade, during the one-day Training Workshop on Best Practices in Public Toilet Management, held on the 19th July 2022, at the Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park , Alausa Ikeja
He said the state government has four cardinal points of operation which include Advocacy; Regularization and standardization; Bridging the gap and Monitoring, Evaluation & Enforcement adding that the workshop comes under Regularization and standardization.
He said the government in collaboration with A- Mobile Group Academy is determined to achieve zero tolerance regulation for open defecation and urination and that is the reason the training became imperative for all public toilet operators across the state.
According to him, in order to become successful in rendering services, learning new things must be a way of life and mastery of the business brings Excellence.
He said the government inaugurated an Anti- open defecation Squad some years back, according to the environmental laws of the state for non- complying members of the public and as such toilet operators must adhere to proper toilet management to avoid any form of sanctions from the government.
He charged the toilet operators to always ensure proper handling of the toilets as this would help reduce government and individual expenditure on treatment of diseases and make more money available for other economic uses.
PIX 3295 L- R : Toilet Owner, Ibrahim Talle, Chairman Lagos State Public Toilet Association , Alhaji Omotunde Adenekan, Chief Operation Officer, A-Mobile Group Academy, Mrs. Damilola Oloruntade and Director Sanitation Services, Office of Environmental Service, Dr. Hassan Sanuth, during a one-day Training Workshop on Best Practices in Public Toilet Management, held on the 19th of July 2022, at John Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park , Alausa Ikeja.
The facilitator and Chief Operating Officer, A- Mobile Group Academy Mrs. Damilola Oloruntade in a lecture titled “Best Practices in Toilet Management” explained that toilet operators must collaborate with the government in order to curb open defecation menace by building the toilet in a accessible location, employ trained staff, use appropriate tools, as well as employ legal waste disposal process amongst others.
She said public toilet operators in order to achieve best practices in toilet management must be properly trained by approved body and also follow laid down rules by the government always.
SIGNED
KUNLE ADESHINA
DIRECTOR PUBLIC AFFAIRS, MOE&WR
……Says the Oko Oba Channel is undergoing expansion.
…..Urges motorists and pedestrians to avoid wading through floods during rainfalls
Lagos State Government on Saturday sympathized with residents of the state over heavy flash flooding experienced in several parts of the State including Oko Oba in Agege, urging everyone to remain vigilant and cautious.
The State Government in a statement signed by the commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello said flash flooding on old Oko Oba Road followed the ceaseless rainfall of over 10 hours that led to the overflowing of the Oko Oba Canal Channel which is presently undergoing expansion.
Bello stated that the Oko Oba Canal in Agege is being expanded to allow for the containment of more stormwater that would reduce flooding in the area.
He explained that the state Government has always adviced that motorists and residents should be cautious and refrain from wading through flood waters during heavy rainfalls largely because of the dangers inherent in it.
He added that the contractor handling the expansion project has been slowed down by the intensity of the rains of the past weeks but is committed to the completion of the project.
He reminded that because of the coastal nature of the state, it is bound to experience flooding when there is heavy rainfall, especially about a rainfall that started on Friday with high intensity and has not receded till over 36 hours after.
He said all the water bodies into which the channels including the Oko Oba channel will deliver have risen and will only recede hours after the rainfall ceases.
Bello appealed to residents to be very cautious as Lagos will experience more heavy rains till end of August and that all residents and motorists should avoid having to wade through floods while it is raining.
He also urged all those in depressed and low-lying areas in the state at this period to be wary of water levels and be ready to move to high areas during the rainfall to safeguard lives and properties.
The Commissioner also enjoined the people to complement the efforts of the Emergency Flood Abatement Gang of the state that are busy freeing up all clogged black spots all the time by not dumping refuse into drains and canals.
Signed Kunle Adeshina Director (Public Affairs) MOE &WR
….Reiterates ban on Sale of Rams on Highways and Roads.
As the Sallah celebration approaches, the Lagos State Government through the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources on Thursday called on residents to continue to make cleaniness and safety their watchword throughout the season
In a statement signed by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello, he urged Lagosians to respect the environment, be mindful of littering and dispose of animal waste properly during the festive period.
He said all generated waste through slaughtering of rams and other animals as well as waste from food items must be properly disposed, through bagging and placement at designated points.
He warned against dumping wastes generated from slaughtering of animals into drains, stating that such action will come back to haunt all residents through flooding.
He added that sanitation workers and waste managers would all be on duty and have been mandated to work relentlessly across the State during this period.
“ It is not unexpected that there will be an increase in generated waste during and after the Sallah, therefore our Sanitation Intervention Programme with the combined efforts of the Ministry of the Environment and Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) is still on course to rid Lagos of indiscriminate refuse dumping” he assured.
He said that the administration of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu would continue to be in the fore front of the campaign for a healthy and cleaner environment, encouraging Lagosians to desist from acts that could have negative impacts on the environment.
He reminded Lagosians that the Law against street trading was still in force, stressing that this includes display of rams on major highways, road medians, lay-byes, gardens and parks across the State.
“While it is a usual act for some traders to take advantage of the season to display and sell rams, this must be done at designated markets without defacing the environment, affecting traffic or compromising the wellbeing of Lagosians”, he said.
Bello while felicitating with all Muslims reminded all that as the rains are here urged Lagosians to guard against the outbreak of epidemics, by ensuring that wastes are handled in the most appropriate way without defacing the aesthetic of the state.
Signed Kunle Adeshina Director (Public Affairs) MOE &WR
…Holds 1 Day workshop for Slaughter Houses and Abattoir Operators
Lagos State Government on Thursday engaged owners of slaughterhouses and Abattoir Operators to embrace the process of circular economy, where waste generated in Abattoirs will be converted into other uses as a means to tackle various global challenges.
This call was made by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tunji Bello during a one day workshop on Environmental Management in Abattoirs and Slaughter Houses in Lagos State, themed “Circular Economy: Conversion of Abattoir Waste to wealth ” held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja.
Tunji Bello represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Omobolaji Gaji added that such global challenges which need to be tackled include climate change, biodiversity loss, environmental degradation, pollution amongst others.
He explained that routine monitoring of the Abattoirs and Slaughter houses/slabs by officials of this Ministry has established that over 3000 cattles are slaughtered daily in over 50 identified Slaughter Slabs/Houses across the State.
“It has been observed that operators of these facilities often have difficulties in disposing, treating and processing the waste generated in an environmentally acceptable manner thereby allowing untreated wastewater to eventually finds its way into the natural water bodies.
He added that poor handling of other wastes such as the Cow dung, bones, blood and others result in different degrees of environmental degradation and pollution.
He added that also associated with the poor waste management in Abattoirs is biodiversity loss that affects the food chain, increase the Bio – chemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) and Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) of the natural water bodies due to promotion of bacterial growth thereby depriving other aquatic organisms of the much needed oxygen for survival.
He stressed that poor animal waste management contributed to environmental pollution such as underground water pollution, air pollution, odour nuisance, soil pollution leading to transmission of diseases to human. (Zoonosis).
He said the accumulation of Cow dungs, Paunch contents and bones would encourage the build-up of methane gas, Green House Gas that causes depletion of the ozone layer and invariably causes global warming.
He maintained that the consequence of the poor management of waste from the operations of the abattoir facilities constitute a high risk to the sustainability of the Environment as well as public health.
He stated that the present administration led by Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has proactively put the issues of the environment at a very prominent place in its policy thrust and has remained committed to it.
He recalled that the world recently celebrated the environment day with the theme, “Only One Earth”, underscoring the fact that there is no other planet available to all and so everyone need to take care of the only one Earth.
He emphasized that now more than ever, matters that affect the environment have become the focus of every government that cares for the welfare of its people and the future generation.
He said the destructive action on the environment needs to be reversed with utmost urgency and everyone have a role to play to reverse the unsafe practices that impact negatively on the environment and imbibe more sustainable practices.
He said the workshop expected to afford participants the opportunity to turn waste to economically useful products that will reduce their operation cost as well as increase their revenue.
Earlier in his welcome address, the representative of the Permanent Secretary, Director of Sanitation Services Department, Dr. Hassan Sanuth said the workshop was designed to educate and encourage participants to adopt best available methods in the management of operational by-products and eliminate the negative impacts of abattoir operations on the environment.
He urged everyone to make efforts to ensure that the environment that would be bequeathed to the future generations remains as livable as people are living in it today or try to improve for better.
In her lecture, the Guest Lecturer, Dr Margret Owolabi speaking on the topic converting Bone and Blood to viable products said an average yield of 10 -20kg of blood can be derived from 1 cow saying that cow blood is very high in Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Calcium.
She said animal blood can be used as fertilizers as well as mixed with animal feed while bone is also made into Gelatin, Glue and bone meal adding that Abattoir Operators need to collaborate with investors for high tech value addition for local and export purposes.
She concluded that efficient treatment of animal by-products encourage rapid hygienic disposal of waste thus avoiding decomposition and formation of obnoxious odour.
Signed
Kunle Adeshina
Director Public Affairs
MOE &WR
June 23, 2022
Lagos State Government on Thursday convened the first edition of Lagos Climate Change Business Meeting with the organised private sector, sharing her vision in advancing Climate Action in the State.
Speaking at the roundtable talk held at Ebony Life Place, Victoria Island, the State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello said government as an enabler is keen on partnering with the private sector to confront climate change.
He added that the several mitigation and Adaptation measures adopted by government could be embraced by the private to improve their productivity, profit and make the state more liveable.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary Office of Environmental Services, Gaji Omobolaji, he said the State Government has deemed it necessary to begin to have conversations to co-opt the private sector into the Lagos Climate Action initiative.
He revealed that climate change is now more of a developmental issue which requires the collaborative effort of Government, The Organized Private Sector, Civil Society Organizations, The Academia and all relevant stakeholders.
Bello said Government in year 2021 launched its Climate Action Plan which is expected to equip the State to take decisive and impact-oriented action to address the development challenges it faces in the pursuit of sustainable low-carbon and climate-resilient socio-economic development.
“In as much as we are aware of the threat climate change poses to the environment, the economy and livelihoods, we also need to begin to view climate change through the prism of the opportunities it presents in the areas of job creation, attraction of direct investments, healthcare improvements, waste to energy initiatives, sustainable infrastructure development, and renewable energy investments” he adviced.
Bello gave an example of the result from the Greenhouse Gas Emission Inventory conducted by the Ministry which revealed that the energy sector contributes the highest emission, while Lagos receives less than12,000MWh daily from the National grid which is about 6.25%.
“Even if we compare generator cost of N130/ KWh with a grid cost of N50/ KWh , the cost associated with burning fossil fuel by residents and businesses in the State for energy generation daily is estimated at a staggering sum of 14.4 Billion Naira daily and N5.3 Trillion annually . This value currently spent on non-renewable energy sources can be channeled into renewable energy sources with potential savings made” he revealed.
He said this is a decade of action and it is important to collectively begin to mobilize necessary support and resources to embark on transformative actions on Climate Change adding that this will enable a shift towards green economic growth, develop our adaptive capacity towards climate change and also achieve emission neutrality.
He however express optimism that with the initiation of the meeting, collaboration on Climate Action will be established and sustained to effectively deliver on the goals of the Lagos Climate Action Plan in the Energy, Waste and Transport Sectors.
Speaking at the event, the Head and General Manager Sustenability at Dangote Cement, Igazeuma Okoroba commended the initiative of the State Government on the parley, promising Dangote coy’s commitment to its sustenance.
She said when Government shares its vision as an enabler, the private will be more to participate actively in such venture just like Dangote Cement did with the 8th Lagos Climate Change Summit last year.
The meeting also had in attendance reresentatives from Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance(FBRA), banks, multinational companies and agencies of the State Government.
Kunle Adeshina Director Public Affairs June 16, 2022
