Lagos marks 2026 World Environment Day, calls for cleaner state

Lagos Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab. Credit: X | Tokunbo Wahab

The Lagos State Government has joined the global community in commemorating the 2026 World Environment Day, urging residents to take collective responsibility for protecting the environment and ensuring a cleaner, healthier state. The annual event, observed worldwide, is aimed at promoting environmental awareness and encouraging actions that safeguard natural resources for present and future generations. The Commissioner, Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, Lagos State, Tokunbo Wahab, on his X handle on Friday, said the state government reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable environmental management through sanitation exercises, waste management reforms, enforcement of environmental laws, and public enlightenment campaigns. “As one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities, Lagos remains committed to sustainable environmental practices through continuous sanitation exercises, waste management reforms, environmental enforcement, and public enlightenment campaigns aimed at creating a cleaner, healthier, and safer society,” he said. He stressed that environmental protection requires the active participation of all residents, including individuals, businesses, market operators, and community leaders. “This year’s commemoration serves as a reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. Every resident, business owner, market operator, and community leader has a vital role to play in maintaining a clean environment,” the government said. Residents were also urged to adopt proper waste disposal practices and avoid actions that could harm the environment, such as blocking drainage channels or engaging in indiscriminate dumping. Related News Norway urges Nigerian businesses to swap diesel generators for solar power Lagos unveils N2.5m tree-planting prize to tackle urban heat Gombe hails results of tree planting, erosion control projects Authorities noted that enforcement actions against environmental violations remain ongoing across the state. “The Lagos State Government, through its relevant agencies and environmental stakeholders, continues to intensify efforts against illegal dumpsites, street trading, open defecation, and other environmental infractions that threaten public health and urban sustainability,” the statement added. The government called on citizens to support its initiatives aimed at improving sanitation and environmental discipline across communities. “We urge all residents to support government initiatives by promotin