• LAGOS TO EXPERIENCE 250 TO 300 DAYS OF RAINFALL IN 2022- TUNJI BELLO

    …As State holds 2022 Annual Seasonal Rainfall Pattern Prediction briefing

    The Lagos State Government on Thursday stated that the State will experience about 250 to 300 days of rainfall across the 20 Local Governments in the Year 2022.

    It also disclosed that the annual rainfall amount for the State will be 2700mm just as the State will experience onset, cessation, and rainfall amount similar to the prediction for 2021.

    The implication is that Lagos will experience a rain pattern of high intensity and frequency similar to what was experienced in 2021.

    Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources Mr. Tunji Bello made these known while addressing the media at a press briefing for 2022 Seasonal Climate Predictions (SCP) and Social Implications for Lagos State held at Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources Conference Room, Alausa.

    He added that the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET), at the beginning of every year, usually forecasts the expected rainfall and temperature patterns spanning the entire country while the results were published as the Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP).

    He explained that the Ministry is consolidating on its collaboration with NiMet in the area of annual SCP which has been very valuable as a vital weather and early warning tool for farmers, planners, decision-makers, operators of various sectors, and businesses that are likely to be affected by the annual rainfall patterns as demonstrated by this media briefing.

    Bello said the SCP for Lagos State generally signifies that the onset dates range between 17th March in the earliest and 6th April 2022 at the latest, while the cessation dates range between 30th November and 5th December 2022.

    He revealed Ikeja is expected to have a rainfall onset date of 17th March while cessation date is 3rd December with a total amount of 1392mm adding that Lagos Island is expected to have a rainfall onset date as 6th April, cessation date as 30th November and a total rainfall amount of 1627mm as specifically highlighted by NiMet.

    According to him, the peculiarity of Lagos State, as a coastal state and its strategic position as the economic hub of the nation, has necessitated the need to disseminate crucial information on the 2022 Climate Prediction in order to prepare our people ahead of the likely consequences of the rains and other relevant weather parameters.

    He said it is also expected that the recent increased frequency of extreme weather events will continue in 2022 with days of extremely high rainfall amounts which may result in flooding.

    “Our pro-active administration in the State, in response to the above phenomena, has strengthened the Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS) to deliver reliable, timely and effective flood information at an appropriate response time” he said.

    Bello emphasized that the construction of Lagos State network of weather stations has commenced and will soon reach the completion stage saying these stations would assist in monitoring the weather in the State as well as increase the preparedness for weather-related issues.

    He assured the people that the Government would continue to reap the gains of rigorous planning as the flood control measures are being stepped up to contain any imminent heavy rainfalls adding that the rainfall from neighboring Ogun and Osun States, dams release,d and rivers flowing into the State would also be monitored.

    He stressed that towards ensuring a flood-free and hygienic environment in the State, the Ministry always embarks on all-year-round drainage maintenance for effective flood control as well as a sustainable solid waste management system.

    Bello emphasized that the Government is determined to maintain the long-established synergy with the Ogun-Oshun River Basin Authority (OORBDA) which has ensured control and monitoring of the systemic release of water from Oyan Dam to prevent flooding of the downstream reaches of Ogun River.

    He stated that the low-lying areas such as Agiliti, Agboyi, Itowolo and Ajegunle communities in Lagos State will be closely monitored with respect to the likelihood of Ogun River flooding, adding that the afore mentioned areas may be highly vulnerable to heavy flooding this year.

    He reiterated that the Government would not relent in it efforts to continually sensitize communities in coastal and low-lying areas of the State, to relocate upland to avert needless loss of lives and property, when the need arises.

    He appealed to the media to be cautious in the manner they report issues of flooding and to help educate the public that when it rains heavily, it is natural to have flash floods which would drain off quickly, as the case in different parts of the world.

    He said the present administration recently approved a plastic waste policy which is one of the pro-active measures to reduce the prevalence of plastic waste and also create a circular economy for plastic waste adding that indiscriminate dumping of plastic wastes into the drains lead to flooding.

    The Commissioner said the State resident Drainage Engineers were available in all the 57 Local Governments Areas and Local Council Development Areas to attend to all drainage related matters during and after the rainy season stressing that the State had also strengthened the synergy with authorities at the Local Government and Local Council Development Areas for monitoring of tertiary drains to ensure free-flowing drains into the secondary and primary collectors.

    “Finally, I wish to appeal once again to our people to support our efforts by complementing the State Government through the regular clearing of drains in their frontages and residences to ensure free-flow of stormwater as well as to desist from dumping of refuse into drainage channels,” he said.

    In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Drainage and Water Resources, Engineer Joe Igbokwe emphasized that owing to the pressure of insecurity in some other states, Lagos has become the most secured state in the country and this has increased the influx of people into the state saying this has put a lot of pressure of infrastructure in the state.

    He said the government is determined to rid the state of all forms of environmental infractions across the State, adding that homeowners in low lying areas like Iwaya, Makoko, Ijora Badiya, Agboyi Ketu, Itowolo, Isheri amongst others should be mindful as their homes are located along natural water path.

    He said the proper care for Environment can be achieved through sensitization, attitudinal change and development of individuals capable of taking action on environmental issues towards achieving a sustainable environment.

    The Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services and Water Resources, Engr. Lekan Shodeinde said it has been scientifically predicted that there will be a rise in ocean level which will further lead to a rise in Lagoon level bringing a back-flow to the low-lying areas in the Lagos state.

    He urged the media to assist the government in the advocacy against indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the state saying that achieving this feat could on be through an attitudinal change of the people and not only enforcement.

    Also in his remarks, the Managing Director, Lagos State Waste Management Authority, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni stated that the implementation of the Plastic Waste policy has gotten to the stage where it involves the manufacturers and consumers’ adding that massive advocacy was ongoing in the markets on waste sorting.

    He explained that the pilot scheme of waste sorting from the source begins on the 1st of April in Magodo Phase 1 being an organized setting adding that when success is recorded, it will be extended to other organized Estates and Markets in the State.

    He urged everyone to continue to do their bit in maintaining the environment, stressing that government will not relent in performing its responsibilities of maintaining flood free and clean environment.

    Kunle Adeshina
    Director (Public Affairs)
    MOE &WR
    March 31st, 2022

  • WE ARE COMMITTED TO HARMONIZING WATER SANITATION AND HYGIENE (WASH) POLICIES – LASG

    WE ARE COMMITTED TO HARMONIZING WATER SANITATION AND HYGIENE (WASH) POLICIES – LASG

    ………Joins Global Celebration of 2022 World Water Day

     

    The Lagos State Government on Tuesday stated that it is committed to harmonising its Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) policies to ensure coherence at all levels.

    This was made known by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Services, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Engr. Nurudeen Shodeinde at a seminar organized in commemoration of the 2022 World Water Day celebration in Lagos State, saying that a review of the WASH policy is currently going on in Lagos State.

    He said the theme for this year’s celebration ‘Groundwater: Making the invisible visible’ is apt as it aims to highlight the collective behavior of forgetting the importance of groundwater like many other elements of our planet that are not in plain sight but essential to human sustenance.

    He added that this year’s campaign will explain the vital role of groundwater in Water and Sanitation system, Agriculture, Industry, Ecosystem and Climate Change adaptation.

    “The message of this campaign is that protecting and sustainably exploiting groundwater will be central to surviving and adapting in a changing world and its environment as well as meeting the needs of a rapidly growing population”, he added.

    He said that the diverse perspectives we hear today shows the multidimensional value of groundwater across sectors especially in a State like ours with its unique blend of aquatic and human interaction.

    “It is in this view that the present administration led by Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-olu redesignated the erstwhile Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, in recognition of the need for a firm institutional arrangement in the water sector. Our regulation of this sector is based on inclusiveness, building technical expertise and technology to create a robust structure capable of exploiting opportunities locally and internationally as well as tackling challenges in the sector” he said.

    Shodeinde who was represented by the Director Drainage Enforcement and Compliance Engr Manmood Adebite stressed that protecting and sustainably exploiting groundwater will be central to surviving and adapting in a changing world and its environment as well as meeting the needs of a rapidly growing population.

    He explained that the regulation of the sector is based on inclusiveness, building technical expertise and technology to create a robust structure capable of exploiting opportunities locally and internationally as well as tackling challenges in the sector.

    He said modern technologies are adopted to optimize water usage and the Government is building synergy with WaterAid Nigeria, the professionals and the academia as evident in this year celebration.

    “Our doors still remains open for partnership with corporate organizations, development partners and professional bodies in achieving the goal of water for all (SDG 6)” he said

    The Permanent Secretary said the State Government called for collaboration from the private sector, the drive of the civil society organization and the solidarity of the International Community in tackling the many challenges in the water sector.

    Earlier in her welcome address, the Director, Water Resources Department, Engr. Omolanke Taiwo said although groundwater is out of sight but its value to human survival cannot be over emphasized.

    She said the Water Sector in Lagos State needs the academia, more than ever before most especially in the review of Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Policy that is on-going.

    She added that the Ministry in terms of research on groundwater management is collaborating with Civil and Environmental Engineering and Geology Departments of University of Lagos (Unilag) and also welcome all studies and research in terms of data gathering that can assist the State in policy making.

    The representative of WaterAid Nigeria in a goodwill message, Mrs. Nambam Michaels explained that as human activities such as industrialization, waste management, population growth and climate variability intensifies, the threat to quality and quantity groundwater available for sustainable development also increases.

    She stressed that there is need for concerted efforts for effective management of the groundwater because making the invisible visible in an increasingly competitive environment requires processes, technologies for extraction and distribution of water which if not monitored could jeopardize people’s health and means of livelihood

    The President , Nigerian Water Sanitation Association, Engr. Peter Onyeri said water is everywhere and still scarce in certain areas adding
    that lot of people have no respect for water because the water they waste is higher than the one in use.

    He said Sanitation and Water Management solely rest on engineering but all professionals need to come together to achieve the goal in the water sector because it involves putting in use various technologies

    Signed

    Kunle Adeshina
    Director (Public Affairs)
    MOE &WR
    March 22, 2022

    L-R: Guest Lecturer, Prof. Abiodun Odukoya, Representative Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage Service and director, Drainage Enforcement and Compliance, Engr. Mahmood Adegbite, Director, Water Resources Office of Drainage Services, Engr. Lanke Taiwo, and Representative WaterAid Nigeria, Mrs. Nambam Michaels, during the year 2022 World Water Day celebrations, held on the 22nd of March, 2022, held at Rauf Aregbesola Engineering Center, Pen Cinema, Agege,Lagos.

  • SANWO-OLU TO ADVERTISERS: JOIN CAMPAIGN ON DIVERSIFICATION FROM MONO-ECONOMY TO AGRICULTURE

    LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

    MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES

    BLOCK 16

    The Secretariat, Ikeja

     

    PRESS RELEASE

     

    SANWO-OLU TO ADVERTISERS: JOIN CAMPAIGN ON DIVERSIFICATION FROM MONO-ECONOMY TO AGRICULTURE

     

     

     

    Lagos State Government on Sunday urged advertisers and marketers to join the campaign on diversification from a mono-economic culture to embrace the opportunities available in the abundance of agriculture potentials in the country.

     

    This was made known by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu during the 10th ADVAN Awards for Marketing Excellence West Africa held at the Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

     

    The Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for the Environment and water Resources, Mr. Tunji Bello noted that agriculture and Natural resources served as economic mainstay before the discovery of crude oil in commercial quantities that changed the narrative of the national economic vision and focus.

     

    He added that It is also the duty of the advertisers and marketers to promote the image of Nigeria with the potentials available in the diversity in order to encourage foreign and direct investments which will impact positively on the growth of the economy.

     

    He noted that the essence of nation building is to maintain a strategic advantage in the comity of nations with a view of promoting economic growth.

     

     

    He said since the inception of ADVAN Awards a decade ago, it has provided a credible platform to promote professionalism, brand awareness, loyalty and consumer retention in a competitive market.

     

    He added that the efforts of ADVAN, as the major trade association representing the interests of advertisers and marketers in Nigeria, has not gone unnoticed at the global stage.

     

    He said the nomination of ADVAN to the Executive Council of the World Federation of Advertisers is commendable stressing that it equally connotes that the association needs to upscale their activities and ensure that quality control becomes a byword in the industry.

     

    He stated that there are positive and negative perceptions about any country and its people which is formed by the experience of the observer or respondent. .

     

    Sanwo-Olu said everyone must work together to project a positive global perception of the country in place of the negative narrative that is being promoted with ignominy.

     

    He stressed that every citizen represents brand ambassadors of Nigeria, therefore whatever they say or project into public consciousness carries a lot of weight, especially in the international fora and the unregulated social media.

     

    “Let us leverage on the gains recorded by our dynamic entertainment sector which has firmly placed its foot on the global stage, especially with the global focus on Nigeria when one of our own Burna Boy was nominated and eventually won the Grammy Award as a musical artiste” he said.

     

    According to him, I celebrate all the nominees for the privilege availed them in a pool of incredibly talented personnel and organisations in an era that is rapidly being transformed by artificial intelligence and technology.

     

    He said the nomination of the awardees is reflective of their contributions to the growth of the advertising and marketing sector for the growth of their economy.

     

     

    He added that the award nominations should motivate everyone to raise the bar of performance in the industry among their peers and younger professionals in the industry.

     

     

    He added that he sees branding from the context of a national entity where the sum total of creativity, design and narratives identifies or differentiates one country from the other.

     

     

     

     

    Signed

     

    Kunle Adeshina

    Director (Public Affairs)

    MOE &WR

    November 22, 2021

  • LASG CALLS FOR CONTINOUS HEALTHY SANITATION PRACTICES.

    LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT
    MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES
    BLOCK 16
    The Secretariat, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

    PRESS RELEASE

    LASG CALLS FOR CONTINOUS HEALTHY SANITATION PRACTICES.

    …….Constructs 345 toilets, registered 615 private toilet operators

    The Lagos State Government on Friday called on residents to promote healthy sanitation practices as the State continues to implement initiatives on improvements and increase the stock of available toilets.

    Addressing participants at the 2021 World Toilet Day celebration in Alausa, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, maintained that Lagos State is setting the pace for others to emulate, saying that State has constructed 345 public toilets in strategic locations across the State, while 615 private owned toilets operators have also been registered saying these were the result of a resilient strategy developed as a documented commitment to improve the quality of life of Lagos residents.

    “The initiative mentioned above provides for design and construction of pubic toilets in vulnerable communities of each Local Government and Local Council Development Areas whilst also creating an enabling environment for private sector participation under a fee-paying management system” he emphasized.

    The Commissioner represented by the Special Adviser on Drainage and Water Resources, Engr. Joe Igbokwe added that the celebration brings to the front burner, issues to draw attention and seek for inclusive response in tackling sanitation challenges and the menace of open defecation in the country.

    Highlighting the theme for this year: “Valuing Toilet” the Commissioner said all stakeholders must priotize sanitation and hygiene as these act represents the cheapest and easiest method of combating the spread of diseases and control other environmental crises.

    ” It is important to note that Nigeria presently occupies the topmost level in the ladder of open defecation and that each State of the country is expected to domesticate the Federal Government declaration toward achieving Open Defecation Free Status by 2025″ he said.

    Earlier at the event, Permanent Secretary Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Belinda Odeneye said that the State Government has taken the lead role in public awareness and education campaigns on Hand washing, Sanitation and Hygienic standards as well as tackling the menace of open defecation.

    She added that the State in collaboration with her partners has empowered a broad range of stakeholders and promote environmental friendly approach to addressing the open defecation challenge.

    The Permanent Secretary represented by Director, Ecology and Conservation, Mr. Sheriff Savage noted that the State officially flagged off the CLEAN NIGERIA: USE THE TOILET CAMPAIGN and inaugurated an ANTI OPEN DEFECATION SQUAD last year.

    She explained that this is to instill in the Citizens behavioural change towards the use of toilets and maintaining safe sanitation, saying that the campaign was launched with an action plan to domesticate the campaign in each of the 20 LG and 37 LCDAs.

    Odeneye however assured that as a responsive Government with a plan for Innovation, Inclusiveness and Efficiency, the State will not relax on its plans and strategies to promote sanitation and hygiene.

    Senior Brand Manager, Hygiene West Africa, Chioma Sylva-Ifedigbo said the theme for 2021 aimed at drawing attention to the fact that toilets, and the sanitation system that support them are underfunded, poorly managed or neglected in many parts of the world.

    Commending the leadership of the State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources for its leadership in its effort to end open defecation within the State, adding that through the Harpic Brand, Nigerians have access to hygienic toilets and the firm has been effectively communicating and educating people on the importance of toilet hygiene and sanitation, to drive behavioural change.

    Signed

    kunle Adeshina

    Director Public Affairs

    Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources

     

    20th November, 2021

  • LASG CHARGES MDAs ON INCORPORATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

    LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT

    MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES

    BLOCK 16

    The Secretariat, Ikeja

     

    PRESS RELEASE

     

    PRESS RELEASE

     

    LASG CHARGES MDAs ON INCORPORATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

     

    Lagos State Government on Wednesday called on all it’s Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) to incorporate Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in every project and policy before implementation.

     

    Speaking at a stakeholders engagement and sensitization for MDAs on streaming ESIA into projects planning and implementation at Alausa Ikeja, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello stated that the objective of meeting was to discuss the critical role of Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in various collective strides towards sustainable development in the State.

     

    He said ESIA is a formal process for identifying the likely impacts that may arise from a proposed activity of project on the environment, human health and social economic activities.

     

    Tunji Bello represented by the Director of Sanitation Services, Dr. Hassan Sanuth said that ESIA helps in identifying the likely adverse and beneficial

    impacts of a project with the aim of putting in place measures to mitigate the adverse ones.

    He added that it is a critical environmental management tool that must be embraced by both private and public sector in order to achieve sustainable development.

    He explained that the establishment of industrial facilities, creation of new settlements, and construction of infrastructures come with huge adverse environmental impacts ranging from pollution of various environmental platforms such as Air, Land and Water to sometimes irreversible environmental degradation if not properly managed.

    He stated further that the Government cannot afford the huge cost of addressing environmental degradation and ecological challenges resulting from unwholesome project development activities stressing that the cost of doing the right thing is cheaper than the cost of correcting the consequences of refusal to do them.

    He said ESIA has become a global decision-making tool by policy makers in protecting the Environment with nations across the globe enacting laws and setting stricter standards to ensure compliance and Lagos State cannot be an exception.

    He said it is impressive that Government has continued to see improvements in the level of compliance of the Private Sector players to the process, and same must be adhered to by the Public Sector.

    “This workshop is aimed at reversing the trend by encouraging MDAs to mainstream ESIA into their developmental initiatives always.

    “ESIA has become a global decision-making tool by policy makers in protecting the Environment with nations across the globe enacting laws and setting stricter standards to ensure compliance and Lagos State cannot be an exception” he emphasized.

    He said Government therefore has adopted the application of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) process in ensuring sustainable implementation of development projects in the State in line with global best practices.

    He said that the government developed the Citizens Guide on ESIA to educate members of the public and provide them with required information on ESIA process in the State.

    Earlier in her address, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs. Ronke Odeneye, noted that the Workshop themed “Mainstreaming Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) into developmental initiatives in Lagos State” was not only apt but also timely because it’s coming at a time when all hands were on deck to ensure sustainable development in the State.

    She added that MDAs including the Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) are the corner stones for the realization of the objective of ESIA as they implement various projects that are expected to impact on the lives of the people.

    The facilitator, Assistant Director, Environmental Assessment, Mr. Lasisi Adedoyin in his lecture titled “Mainstreaming Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) into developmental initiatives in Lagos State” advised that it has become important to incorporate it.
    greening, water project and proper drainage system in every projects being embarked upon.

    Signed

    Kunle Adeshina
    Director (Public Affairs)
    MOE &WR
    November 18, 2021

  • LAGOS STATE MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES

    LAGOS STATE MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES

    PRESS RELEASE

    LASG CALLS FOR COMPLETION OF EXPANSION OF DRAINAGE NETWORK ON LAG/ABK EXPRESS ROAD

    ….Says it will assist in deflooding the Expressway and its environs

    Following the flash flood which ravaged the Ahmadiyyah/ Ijaiye axis of the Lagos Abeokuta Expressway on Sunday, Lagos State Government on Tuesday called for the prompt completion of the ongoing expansion of the drainage culvert across the Lagos Abeokuta Express road at that section.

    According to a statement signed by Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tunji Bello, the ongoing road rehabilitation works being done by Julius Berger Nigeria Limited for the Federal Government involves the necessary expansion of the old culvert underneath the Expressway which is inadequate to contain storm water runoff from the catchments.

    He stated that the expansion will ensure that rain water flows freely and easily into the collector drain at the downstream of the culvert.

     

    He said this singular measure, when undertaken will take all the rain water such as the one that flooded the Expressway on Sunday into the 2.0 meters by 1.5metres Collector that eventually discharges into the Akinola River.

    The Commissioner added that the State Government also intends to increase the capacity of the existing collector at the downstream of the culvert to 5.0 metres by 1.5meters in size early next year.

    Also speaking on the progress of work on deflooding of Akowonjo road, Tunji Bello said the Contractor is about to move to the critical stage of cutting Akowonjo Road by Vulcaniser Bus Stop to link the drain on Jimoh Akinremi Street.

    He stated that when approval for traffic diversion is obtained from the Ministry of Transportation, the Contractor will complete this phase of the project by cutting the road and laying the concrete sections over the weekend working day and night to reduce the burden on the road users at the peak period during the week

    He explained that the existing drain on Jimoh Akinremi is stagnant and presently floods Akowonjo Road and must be opened up to run across Akowonjo Road into the already constructed collector which discharges into the Airport via Shasha road conduit.

    He reminded that Lagos is a coastal city that is bound to experience flash flooding, assuring that the state is ensuring that drainage channels are being cleaned and maintained on a regular basis to contain rain water.

    SIGNED

    KunleAdeshina

    Director (Public Affairs)

    MOE &WR

    November 16, 2021

  • LASG UNVEILS CITI MONITOR APP FOR REPORTING ENVIRONMENTAL INFRACTIONS

    The quest for a cleaner Lagos city initiative through citizens participation got a boost over the weekend as the State unveiled  an online application known as “Citi Monitor” for monitoring and reporting of all environmental infractions.

    Launching the app named  “CitiMonitor Application and Enterprise Environmental Monitoring Infrastructure Information system (EEMIIS)”  at Alausa, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tunji Bello stated that it would give government a wider reach in monitoring and responding to environmental issues reported by residents.

    “This app will maximise the reach of the government using the large population of Lagos, it will get to the nooks and crannies and it will help us to better report the state of the environment from blockage of our canals, to indiscriminate waste dumping and every other infractions”, he said.

    Tunji Bello who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Mrs Belinda Odeneye  explained that the application, which the state government had been test running for sometime was now available for download on Google Play Store and Apple IOS Store.

    He added that there are complaints and reports of infractions on daily basis on flooding, damaged roads, dilapidated building, illegal petrol stations, security violations, unlawful human activities, vehicle traffic situations, abandoned vehicles and other environmentally related issues that are underreported or not reported at all in the state.

    Tunji Bello encouraged residents to avail themselves of the opportunity of downloading the App as it is clear that it would help them take ownership of the environment of the state as the citizens are the primary custodians.

    He added that some selected officers of the Ministry are already using the application including 25 officers from the State-of-the Environment programme while other officers on the programme are expected to log on after the Launching.

    He said that residents could still make use of the WhatsApp, text messages and other means to also report environmental infractions.

    Also speaking, the software developer, Mr. Ayodeji Faniran said “Citi Monitor” became necessary in line with emerging trends especially in the utilization of science and technology.

    He explained that one of the unique features of the app is that it is configured to capture real-time images within the Lagos geographical locations only.

    “You cannot upload pictures from your gallery, you cannot submit pictures from other parts of the country or the world, only pictures from Lagos State can be submitted, and once you click the picture anywhere in Lagos State, it’s going to have the time stamp, the location/address and then you can pick the local government and the markets. All local governments and markets in Lagos State have been configured” Mr Faniran said.

    Mr Faniran added that plans were been made to introduce other languages, especially the Yoruba language to enable more residents of Lagos to use the app which is currently configured in the English language.

    Signed
    Kunle Adeshina
    Director (Public Affairs)
    MOE &WR
    August 1, 2021

  • SALLAH CELEBRATION: LASG CHARGES RESIDENTS NOT TO ERODE GAINS OF A CLEANER LAGOS WITH UNSANITARY HABITS

    …….Reiterates ban on sale of rams, cows on Highways, Parks, Medians

    The Lagos State Government on Monday reminded residents to ensure that the gains already made towards a cleaner environment in the city are not eroded as they join Muslims in celebrating the Ed-eil-Kabir.

    In a statement signed by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr.Tunji Bello, he said residents should complement the concerted efforts of the various agencies in the timely evacuation of waste and cleaning of drains especially during the festive period.

    He said all waste generated through the slaughtering of rams and other animals and waste from food items should be properly disposed after bagging through approved PSP operators, just as everyone must avoid unsanitary actions.

    Bello, while felicitating with all Muslims, urged Lagosians to celebrate with moderation, bearing in mind that the COVID-19 pandemic is still with us.

    He added that for all those who will make public outings during the holidays, they should avoid littering while observing Covid safety protocols.

    His words: “In view of the prevalence of the pandemic COVID-19 and observance of the prescribed safety protocols, everyone must always ensure that they handle waste in the most appropriate ways”.

    Bello also used the opportunity to remind Lagosians that the Law against street trading is still in force, stating that any form of street trading which includes display of rams on major highways, road medians, walkways, lay-byes, gardens and parks across the State will not be tolerated.

    He said that while it is not unusual for traders to take advantage of the season to market and sell rams and other livestocks, this must be done in designated markets without defacing the state’s aesthetics or compromising the wellness and wellbeing of residents.

    Kunle Adeshina
    Director (Public Affairs)
    MOE &WR

    July 19th 2021

  • CLIMATE SUMMIT PARTICIPANTS RECOMMEND ESTABLISHMENT OF A CLIMATE CHANGE FOUNDATION

    Participants at the just concluded Lagos 8th International Climate Change summit have recommended the establishment of a Climate Change Foundation that will include public and private sector stakeholders to address Climate Change issues in the State.

    In a communique released over the weekend, the participants also urged the State Government to put in place appropriate framework for accessing climate finance utilizing the direct and indirect strategies for raising climate capital.

    It was also suggested that the state should establish a standing inter-ministerial technical committee on climate change with relevant NGOs and private sector to develop strategies for implementing the Climate Action Plan (CAP) of the State, sector by sector and give regular advice to the Government on it.

    The communique also stated that Lagos State should incorporate resilience to long term impacts of climate change in the design and construction of buildings and critical public infrastructure with an addition that the State should make infrastructure more climate-resilient through retrofitting and implementation of regular maintenance regimes.

    It suggested the development of a framework for the introduction of green sources of energy into its infrastructure development as well as a pursuit of an aggressive implementation of a climate-resilient Smart City initiative.

    The communique also urged the State to vigorously pursue the implementation of the State’s Strategic Transport Master Plan (STMP) to address transportation challenges and reduce Green House Gas emissions emanating from the sector.

    According to the resolution: “The State Government should put in place plans of action to support farmers in adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices and also put in place mechanisms for improved collaboration with other States to attain and sustain food security for the citizens of the State”.

    It emphasized that the government should promote climate smart and eco-friendly agricultural practice and promote zero waste as well as explore the potential for bioenergy generation.

    It advised that Lagos State government should as part of her Affirmative Action implement gender based initiatives targeted at empowering women to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

    It noted that the Government through Ministry of Information and Strategy and its Agencies should commence advocacy on safety issues around LPG across its value chain.

    The participants urged the State Government to improve surveillance through human, animal and environmental monitoring with a view to promoting good health and preventing disease.

    “State Government should take advantage of the human capacity available within the tertiary institutions in the State to support research and innovation to generate new evidence and/or tools for health and to validate existing knowledge” it also stated.

    It also formed part of the resolutions that the the State investment in continuous strengthening of human infrastructure and organizational capacity to address the challenges of Emerging Infectious Diseases (EIDs) should be increased and sustained.

    It added that the State Government should raise a forum to discuss the effects of rural-urban drift on the State environment and infrastructure.

    The communique also urged the State Government to review and expand the scope of her Women Empowerment Initiatives to reach more women particularly those in rural communities.

    The international climate change summit is an annual event by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources to address climate change Issues that that has just been resuscitated after a five year lull.

    Signed
    Kunle Adeshina
    Director (Public Affairs)
    MOE&WR
    June 13, 2021

  • CONDUCIVE ENVIRONMENT, A KEY FOR EFFECTIVE LEARNING- SANWO-OLU …commissions 1,097 projects in 970 Schools

    The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday commissioned a new block of classroom at Bariga, affirming that a conducive environment is very essential for effective learning

     

     

     

     

     

    Sanwo -Olu spoke during the commissioning of a block of classrooms at Oduduwa College, Lanre Awolokun street, Gbagada in Bariga LCDA, through  the  Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tunji Bello whom the Permanent Secretary, Office of Drainage and Water Resources, Engr. Lekan Shodeinde stood in for.

     

     

     

     

     

    He explained that the vital role of education in the development has made it imperative to ensure that children have access to quality education in an enabling environment for excellent learning.

     

     

     

    Sanwo-Olu  said 1,097 infrastructural projects covering 970 Schools across the State, were embarked upon to improve the learning and teaching environment in our public schools.

     

     

     

    He said Education is still the most potent tool of empowerment and one of the most tested ways to close the gap between poverty and wealth saying, that it provide individuals with the necessary knowledge and skill set to actualize their potential and maximize opportunities in life.

     

     

     

    The Governor explained that the projects being commissioned across the state will further drive the “Education and Technology” pillar of the  THEMES Agenda adding that to actualize the Greater Lagos vision, quality education must remain one of the solid building blocks.

     

     

     

    He said that in the last 2 years, Government  had aggressively embarked on the provision of blocks of classrooms, administrative offices, school furniture, laboratories, modern toilet facilities, and security across the six Education Districts and Local Government Councils.

     

     

     

    “ Government has ensured the prompt construction and rehabilitation of 322 dilapidated public schools, while 87,000 dual composite units of furniture were supplied to Primary and Secondary Schools across the State” he said.

     

     

     

    Mr Governor remarked that the investments in the education sector have been yielding positive results saying that students’ performance have improved in examinations, national and international competitions as well as improved morals, etiquette, and confidence in public speaking.

     

     

     

    “Lagos State Public Schools have consistently emerged the overall best at the international Robotics Competition since 2015 and have continued to excellently represent Nigeria at this annual competition;”

     

     

     

    The Lagos State team was one of the best at the 2021 National Junior Engineers, Technicians and Scientist (JETS) Competition, held at the National Mathematical Centre, Kwali ealier this year where the State team won 11 medals and 10 Cups in various categories” he said.

     

     

     

    He acknowledged the contributions hardworking teachers to the success the schools and students saying that the infrastructure being put in place  would amount to nothing if they were not complemented by competent, dedicated and passionate teachers.

     

     

     

    He charged community leaders, school administrators, staff and students of these schools to take ownership of the project saying  all hands must be on deck to ensure that miscreants do not destroy or cart away the properties of our schools adding that the security of  schools and other infrastructures is a collective responsibility.

     

     

     

    He commended the Lagos State Ministry of Education, the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, the Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS) and the Lagos State Infrastructure Management and Maintenance Agency (LASIAMA) for collaborating effectively to actualize various vision in the education sector.

     

     

     

    Signed

     

     

     

    Kunle Adeshina

     

    Director (Public Affairs)

     

    MOE &WR