Lagos to resume monthly environmental sanitation

The Lagos State Government has announced the resumption of the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, beginning from Saturday, April 25, 2026.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the announcement in a statement issued on Saturday.

According to him, the sanitation exercise will be held on the last Saturday of every month from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., as part of efforts by the state government to promote a cleaner and healthier environment.

The monthly sanitation programme was previously suspended in November 2016 during the administration of former governor Akinwunmi Ambode. Before it was stopped, the exercise usually took place on the last Saturday of each month between 7 a.m. and 10 a.m.

Reports at the time indicated that the programme was halted following a ruling by the Lagos Court of Appeal, which declared the restriction of movement during sanitation hours illegal and a violation of citizens’ fundamental rights.

In 2024, the Lagos State Government began discussions on the possibility of bringing back the sanitation exercise due to increasing environmental concerns across the state. Authorities, however, made it clear that the reintroduction would not involve the previous restriction of movement but would instead encourage voluntary participation by residents.

Announcing the resumption, Wahab said the exercise would officially restart on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

“I am pleased to inform all Lagosians that the monthly environmental sanitation exercise will resume effective Saturday, 25th April 2026, holding on the last Saturday of every month from 6:30AM to 8:30 AM.” the statement said

The state government urged residents to actively participate by cleaning their surroundings, clearing drainage channels around their homes and ensuring that waste is properly disposed of.

Officials explained that the exercise is aimed at encouraging citizens to take responsibility for keeping their environment clean while also helping to reduce flooding and other environmental challenges in the state.

The statement further emphasised the importance of community cooperation in achieving a cleaner and more flood-resilient city.

“During this period, residents are enjoined to clean their surroundings, clear drainage channels in their frontages, and dispose of waste properly as a civic responsibility. This exercise is a collective responsibility and a vital part of our commitment to a cleaner, healthier, and flood-resilient Lagos. And it shall be backed with the full enforcement weight of the Lagos State Government.” The statement concluded.