Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has officially announced the reopening of Ladipo, Oyingbo, Alamutu Ologede, and Ile-Epo markets. These markets were recently sealed due to issues of filth and gross environmental abuse.
The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, made this announcement in Lagos on Monday, highlighting the significance of stringent compliance measures in safeguarding public health and preventing future health crises.
Gbadegesin emphasized that the decision to reopen these markets came after they fully complied with the necessary conditions. He stated, “Following extensive renovations and compliance measures, including the implementation of stringent 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.”
To maintain their reopened status, the markets must adhere to a set of mandatory conditions, which include:
- Providing a designated waste point.
- Installation of blockwork fence and platforms for the placement of double dino bins.
- Procurement of double dino bins for waste containerization.
- Commitment to sustainable market waste policing to ensure constant cleanliness.
- Enforcing proper waste disposal regulations.
- Engagement of bin keepers.
- Collaboration with accredited PSP (Private Sector Participation) operators for timely waste evacuation.
- Prompt payment of waste bills.
- Dislodging street traders from road medians and setbacks.
- Preventing unauthorized vending.
Gbadegesin stressed that a dirty market environment is a breeding ground for diseases such as cholera, typhoid, Lassa fever, Ebola, malaria, and others. He underlined that the state is committed to preventing such conditions through proper waste management and adherence to regulations.
Furthermore, Gbadegesin warned that any future violations of these conditions would lead to stiffer sanctions, including the permanent closure of the offending market. He called on market executive members to take their responsibilities seriously and urged traders to prioritize hygiene in their activities.
Local government authorities will be responsible for monitoring market operations to ensure compliance with the set conditions. The public is also encouraged to report any sanitation lapses promptly to LAWMA.
Gbadegesin reminded markets across the state that LAWMA’s zero-tolerance policy for reckless waste dumping in markets remains in effect, and defaulting markets face closure and heavy fines.
For waste management-related issues in Lagos, residents are encouraged to call LAWMA’s toll-free number: 07080601020 and 617.
It is worth noting that LAWMA ordered the immediate closure of Ladipo Market, Mushin, on September 30 due to several environmental offenses, including reckless waste disposal, unhygienic premises, and non-payment of waste bills, among others.
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