Lagos Moves Against Open Defecation, Directs Businesses to Open Toilets to Public
The Lagos State Government has intensified its campaign against open defecation by deploying 1,710 public toilets across the state and urging private businesses to support the initiative. The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a statement shared on social media, noting that the facilities have been strategically located to serve residents and visitors. As part of the new sanitation drive, the government is calling on filling stations, banks, eateries, and other public-facing businesses to open their restrooms to members of the public where possible. According to him, the move is aimed at complementing government efforts and expanding access to clean sanitation facilities across Lagos. He explained that the government alone cannot fully address the challenge of open defecation, stressing the need for public-private cooperation. At the same time, Wahab confirmed that enforcement is being strengthened, with individuals caught engaging in open defecation being arrested and prosecuted under environmental laws. The government said the initiative is driven by the need to protect public health, improve sanitation, and preserve human dignity. It also urged residents and business owners to take shared responsibility in keeping the state clean and habitable, even as infrastructure continues to expand. With these measures, Lagos says it is pushing toward a cleaner environment and stronger public hygiene standards across the state.
Arun
Apr 18, 2026
