The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has announced the reopening of Ladipo, Oyingbo, Alamutu Ologede, and Ile-Epo markets, which were previously sealed due to concerns over filth and environmental abuse. This decision comes after the markets demonstrated full compliance with the necessary conditions.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, emphasized the importance of stringent compliance measures in protecting public health and preventing future health crises. He stated, “Following extensive renovations and compliance measures, including the implementation of strict conditions and a written mandatory undertaking for reopening, Ladipo Market, Oyingbo Market, Alamutu Ologede Market, and Ile-Epo Oke Odo Market have been reopened today for business transactions.”
Dr. Gbadegesin highlighted the mandatory conditions that the reopened markets had to meet before resuming operations. These conditions include providing a designated waste point, installing block work fences and platforms for double Dno bins, procuring double Dino bins for waste containerization, ensuring sustainable market waste policing, engaging bin keepers, collaborating with accredited psp operators for timely waste evacuation, and preventing unauthorized vending.
He emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness in the market environment to prevent the spread of diseases such as cholera, typhoid, Lassa fever, Ebola, and malaria. Dr. Gbadegesin stated, “We cannot stand by and watch some markets expose the people of Lagos State to such conditions, which are clearly avoidable if they do the right things.”
He warned that any future violations would result in stiffer sanctions, including the permanent closure of the offending market. Dr. Gbadegesin urged market executives to fulfill their responsibilities and traders to prioritize hygiene in their activities, as it would benefit them, their customers, and the community. Local government authorities will monitor market operations to ensure compliance with the set conditions, and members of the public are encouraged to report any sanitation lapses to LAWMA.
Dr. Gbadegesin reminded markets that LAWMA’s zero tolerance policy for reckless waste dumping remains in effect, and defaulting markets face closure and hefty fines.
