In a concerted effort to restore environmental sanity and curb indiscriminate waste disposal, the Lagos State Government has partnered with the Nigerian Navy’s Western Naval Command to embark on a large-scale clean-up exercise in the Apapa area.
The joint operation, which took place over the weekend, targeted critical locations including Aremu Junction, Trailer Park, Mobil Road, and Marine Beach. The intervention saw the active participation of key state agencies such as the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), the Office of Drainage Services, and the Apapa Local Government.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Engineer Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, who led the Lagos delegation, stated that the operation was part of a broader initiative by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to ensure cleanliness, prevent flooding, and improve public health outcomes in heavily industrial zones like Apapa. He stressed that maintaining a hygienic environment is a shared responsibility and warned business owners and residents to desist from unsanitary practices.
Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, noted that the exercise is part of the Nigerian Navy’s civil-military relations initiative aimed at strengthening ties with host communities and supporting developmental efforts. He commended the state government’s commitment to environmental reforms and emphasized the Navy’s readiness to continue supporting initiatives that enhance the living conditions of Lagosians.
During the exercise, environmental enforcement teams issued a 72-hour ultimatum to property and business owners within the sanitation zones to clean their surroundings or face sanctions. In addition, mechanics and illegal occupants under the Marine Beach Bridge were ordered to vacate the area within 48 hours to pave the way for continued urban renewal efforts.
Chairperson of Apapa Local Government, Hon. Idowu Senbanjo, expressed optimism that the collaboration would help tackle long-standing sanitation challenges in the area, especially those related to drainage blockages and refuse dumping that often contribute to environmental degradation and traffic gridlock.
Residents and business operators in the affected areas welcomed the initiative, noting the need for consistent engagement and enforcement to sustain the gains of the cleanup.
The operation marks a significant step in Lagos State’s drive to improve the environmental profile of strategic commercial areas while also fostering stronger partnerships with security agencies for sustainable urban development.