The Lagos State Government has reopened the Alaba International Market and selected markets within the Trade Fair Complex, situated in the Ojo Local Government Area of the state. The decision to close these markets had been made due to concerns related to improper waste disposal and other environmental infractions.
The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources in Lagos State, Tokunbo Wahab, explained that the markets were allowed to resume operations after addressing most of the environmental issues. Wahab emphasized that the closure was not politically motivated but was aimed at promoting a clean and healthy environment around these business facilities.
According to Wahab, "The decision to reopen the markets follows a rigorous assessment and implementation of stringent environmental standards. These standards were set to guarantee that businesses in the state operate in a manner that is not detrimental to the environment and the well-being of people."
Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), noted that the agency collaborated closely with market stakeholders to ensure the necessary changes were implemented to meet required environmental standards. These standards include proper waste containerization, eradication of open burning, and a zero-tolerance policy for dumping waste in drainage channels.
