Lagos Government Urges Banks, Filling Stations, and Businesses to Open Restrooms to Public

The Lagos State Government has called on private businesses across the state to support its push for improved sanitation by making their restroom facilities accessible to the public. The appeal is part of a broader strategy to eliminate open defecation and promote a cleaner, healthier environment in Lagos.

The Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this known in a statement shared on X, highlighting the need for stronger collaboration between the government and the private sector.

According to him, Lagos currently has over 1,700 public toilets spread across key locations, serving both residents and visitors. However, he stressed that these facilities alone are not enough to meet the growing demand in a densely populated city like Lagos.

To bridge the gap, the government is encouraging banks, filling stations, eateries, and other customer-facing businesses to voluntarily allow public access to their restrooms where possible. Wahab noted that such a partnership would significantly expand sanitation coverage and make it easier for people to find safe and hygienic facilities when needed.

The initiative comes as the state intensifies enforcement of environmental sanitation laws. Authorities have continued to clamp down on open defecation, with offenders facing arrest and prosecution as part of efforts to protect public health and maintain urban hygiene standards.

Wahab emphasized that access to proper sanitation is a shared responsibility. While the government continues to invest in infrastructure and expand public facilities, he said residents and business owners must also play an active role in keeping the city clean and livable.

With Lagos being one of Africa’s fastest-growing cities, the success of such collaborative efforts could play a critical role in improving sanitation, preserving dignity, and ensuring a safer environment for millions of people who live and work in the state.