The Lagos State Government has lifted the closure order on the Alaba International Market and several markets within the Trade Fair Complex, Ojo, which were temporarily shut down due to environmental issues, including improper waste management.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, clarified that the decision to reopen the markets was not motivated by ethnic or political factors but was made to ensure a clean and environmentally sustainable environment for all residents.

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The reopening followed rigorous assessments and the implementation of stringent environmental standards to guarantee that businesses operate in a manner that does not harm the environment or public well-being.

Wahab emphasized the importance of striking a balance between commerce and environmental health.

The government plans to maintain continuous enforcement and will not hesitate to seal any market or corporate facility found in violation of environmental standards.

Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director of Lagos Waste Management Authority, highlighted the collaborative efforts with market officials to achieve the necessary environmental standards.

He stressed the significance of markets operating in an economically viable and environmentally responsible manner, adhering to various regulations such as proper waste management, eliminating open burning of waste, and preventing waste dumping in drainage channels.

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The enforcement also covers monitoring market sanitation, maintaining a distance from road setbacks, and curbing street trading and trading on road medians and shoulders that disrupt traffic flow.

Violations of these regulations may result in penalties and possible closure of offending markets.