By Precious Enaike

In apparent response to the plan of Lagos State government to re-introduce monthly environmental sanitation programme, Egbe–Idimu LCDA has embarked on a sustained evacuation of refuse and waste aimed at restoring cleanliness and promoting public health.

Vanguard recalls that Lagos Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, had disclosed last year that discussions were ongoing at the State Executive Council regarding the reintroduction of the exercise, which was previously held on the last Saturday of every month before it was suspended in 2016.

The sanitation programme was stopped due to the difficulty of restricting movement in a growing megacity. However, persistent waste management problems, including blocked drainage channels and the widespread dumping of refuse in unauthorised areas, have reignited interest in the policy.

In anticipation of the exercise, Chairman of Egbe–Idimu LCDA, Prince Idris Balogun said the council has acquired waste compactor, deployed under the leadership of Prince Idris Balogun (Oluomo Kafata) and has been fully activated and is currently evacuating refuse along major streets and strategic locations across the LCDA.

The compactor and sanitation team have so far covered several key areas, removing heaps of refuse and restoring order in locations previously affected by indiscriminate waste disposal. The operation forms part of a broader strategy designed to maintain cleaner surroundings, reduce health hazards, and promote a more organized community.

Speaking on the initiative, Balogun said maintaining a healthier environment remains a critical pillar of his administration’s agenda.

“A clean environment is essential for healthy living. Our administration is committed to ensuring that Egbe–Idimu LCDA remains clean, safe, and conducive for all residents. The deployment of the new compactor is part of our deliberate effort to strengthen waste management and improve sanitation across our communities,” he said.

The chairman further noted that the exercise represents a long-term vision for the council area.
“We are not just evacuating refuse; we are building a culture of environmental responsibility. Our goal is to ensure that every street, every neighborhood, and every public space within Egbe–Idimu reflects the standards of a modern and well-managed community ,” he added.

The administration has also received strong institutional backing in ensuring the success of the exercise. The Vice Chairman, Omotayo Ayinde, has continued to provide unwavering support, while the Chief of Staff, Lukmon Idowu, and the Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), Semiu, have also been actively involved in coordinating the exercise.

Equally commendable is the support of the legislative arm of the council, led by the Leader of the House, Anike Hassan, alongside other honourable legislators who have thrown their weight behind the campaign.

Residents have been urged to support the council’s efforts by maintaining proper waste disposal practices and cooperating with sanitation authorities, as the administration remains committed to sustaining a cleaner and healthier environment for all.