The Lagos State Government has called on private organisations, including banks, filling stations, eateries and other public-facing establishments, to make their restroom facilities accessible to members of the public as part of efforts to tackle poor sanitation and eliminate open defecation.
The appeal was made on Saturday by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who disclosed the initiative in a statement shared via social media.
According to him, the state currently operates 1,710 public toilets strategically located across Lagos State, serving both residents and visitors.
However, he stressed that government infrastructure alone is insufficient to meet the needs of the rapidly growing population.
“We currently have 1,710 functioning public toilets strategically located across the state for residents and visitors,” Wahab said.
“However, government cannot do this alone. We are encouraging businesses such as filling stations, banks, eateries, and other public-facing facilities to make their restrooms accessible to the public where possible,” he added.
He explained that expanding access through collaboration with private operators would significantly strengthen ongoing sanitation efforts and improve convenience for the public, particularly in busy urban areas.
Wahab further noted that authorities have intensified enforcement measures against open defecation, with offenders being arrested and prosecuted in line with existing environmental laws.
“These measures are necessary to protect public health, preserve dignity, and maintain a cleaner environment for all,” he said.
Emphasising shared responsibility, the commissioner urged both residents and corporate organisations to contribute actively to maintaining hygiene standards across the state.
“Access to sanitation is a shared responsibility. While government continues to expand infrastructure, residents and businesses must also play their part in ensuring Lagos remains clean, safe, and habitable,” he stated.
The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the Lagos State Government to improve environmental conditions and promote sustainable sanitation practices in one of Africa’s most densely populated urban centres.
