Lagos Must Be Defined By Innovation, Not Plastic Pollution - Sanwo-Olu

The Lagos State Government, in partnership with the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), marked the 19th edition of the annual Walk for Nature at the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Lagos. Representing the Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Special Adviser on Environment and Water Resources, Engr. Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, called on all residents to make a shared declaration that Lagos will not be defined by pollution but by collective action, innovation, and environmental responsibility. He emphasized the goal of achieving a zero-plastic waste future, highlighting that the theme of this year’s walk, “Lagos, Let’s Beat Plastic Pollution,” is both timely and crucial in addressing one of the most pressing global environmental challenges—plastic pollution.

Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that plastic pollution has become a silent global crisis that clogs drains, pollutes waterways, and threatens marine life. He revealed that Nigeria generates about 2.5 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with Lagos alone accounting for 870,000 tonnes, less than 12 percent of which is recycled. The governor underscored the environmental and health hazards posed by improper plastic disposal, including flooding and marine contamination. He stressed that the solution lies in collective responsibility, behavioural change, and conscious environmental stewardship, urging every Lagos resident to take action.

As a coastal megacity, Lagos remains at the forefront of the fight against plastic pollution. Sanwo-Olu highlighted ongoing government efforts, including the enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics and Styrofoam containers, aimed at curbing littering and drainage blockages. The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has strengthened its waste collection and recycling systems, while the Blue Box Programme promotes waste separation at source. He also mentioned the expansion of waste-to-wealth initiatives that convert recyclables into economic opportunities for residents.

The Governor further explained that the state has increased investments in recycling infrastructure, awareness campaigns such as Walk for Nature, and community clean-up exercises across all local governments. Through initiatives like the Cleaner Lagos Initiative, the government continues to empower waste managers, improve landfill operations, and enhance public-private partnerships in waste recovery and recycling. Sanwo-Olu also pointed out that Environmental Marshals have been better equipped to enforce sanitation laws, while the government is collaborating with innovators to promote sustainable alternatives to single-use plastics and environmental education across communities.

Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF) for its consistent partnership and commitment to promoting environmental awareness. He noted that the Walk for Nature has become a symbol of unity and shared purpose toward responsible consumption and a circular economy. Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Tajudeen Gaji, reaffirmed the government’s resolve to safeguard the environment, citing the ban on plastic bags less than 40 microns in thickness. Also, NCF’s National Executive Council Chairman, Hon. Justice Mrs. Raliatu Adebiyi, encouraged Lagos residents to be conservationists by planting trees and promoting sustainability to secure a cleaner and greener future for generations to come.