The Lagos State Government, on Monday, announced the reopening of Mile 12 International Market, which had been temporarily closed last Friday. Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, emphasized that the decision to reopen the market came after a comprehensive evaluation of environmental compliance, waste management practices, and overall cleanliness within the market.
He underscored the importance of safeguarding environmental and public health, making it clear that these values were non-negotiable. The government would not stand idly by while a few individuals compromised these essential principles.
"Comprehensive adherence to environmental standards and safety measures, previously set as prerequisites for reopening, has prompted the immediate reopening of Mile 12 International Market by the Lagos State Government. While the government had advocated for compliance and public awareness, it had no choice but to take enforcement action. This enforcement will remain ongoing, as the government seeks to avoid shutting down markets," Wahab emphasized.
He urged traders to adhere to acceptable hygiene standards for the sake of their health and the public's, warning that any market reverting to unsanitary practices would face closure.
Additionally, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority, stressed the commitment to environmental sustainability and public safety around market facilities in the state. The temporary closure of Mile 12 Market was a necessary step to address environmental concerns, and the authority aimed to ensure that all markets in Lagos, including Mile 12, complied with environmental regulations to create a safer and healthier trading environment.
Gbadegesin mentioned that collaborative efforts with Mile 12 Market traders and associations led to corrective actions, such as the placement of waste bins, proper waste collection and disposal, employment of waste policing personnel, and payment for waste services, among other measures.
He called on traders to fully embrace the state's environmental laws, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment for both traders and their customers. The report indicated that the market had been sealed, along with Owode Onirin Market, due to various environmental violations
