Help fight open defecation by opening your toilets – Lagos to private organizations

By Adeola Ogunrinde

The Lagos State Government has appealed to private organisations, including banks, filling stations, and eateries, to make their restrooms accessible to the public as part of efforts to curb open defecation and improve sanitation across the state.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the appeal in a post shared on X on Saturday.

He disclosed that the state currently has 1,710 functional public toilets strategically located for residents and visitors.

However, he noted that government efforts alone are insufficient to meet the sanitation needs of the growing population.

“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 said.

According to Wahab, this collaborative approach will significantly complement government initiatives and expand access to sanitation facilities across Lagos State.

He further revealed that individuals caught engaging in open defecation are being arrested and prosecuted in line with existing environmental laws.

Wahab added that improved access to sanitation is a shared responsibility, stressing that while government continues to expand infrastructure, residents and businesses must also contribute to keeping Lagos clean, safe, and habitable.