The Lagos State Government on Friday warned against poor solid waste collection and disposal, saying it leads to serious health and environmental problems.
Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Prince Rotimi Ogunleye gave this warning at a news conference in commemoration of the 2018 World Habitat Day.
The theme of this year’s celebration is “Municipal Solid Waste Management.”
In 1985, the United Nations General Assembly, through resolution 40/202 set the first Monday of October of every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of our towns and cities, and on the basis rights of all to adequate shelter.
Speaking at the news conference in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, Southwest Nigeria, Ogunleye emphasised that solid waste management was a global issue that affected everyone.
In his view, the amount of waste produced by individuals was growing daily which often cost local authorities a large proportion of their budget.
“Poor solid waste collection and disposal can lead to serious health and environmental problems from uncontrolled dump sites and waste burning. It also leads to polluted air and water,” he said.
In his submission, the celebration of the day reminded all that they have the power and the responsibility to shape the future of their cities and towns.
Ogunleye disclosed that for a successful outing, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode would grace the occasion billed for October 8, 2018 at the Lagos State Government Secretariat, while UN delegate, Kabir Yari, would deliver UN’s message at the World Habitat Day.
Also, he said Idowu Salawu, an environmental management consultant would deliver the lecture on “Municipal Solid Waste Management in Lagos State.”
The commissioner revealed that 37 ministries, departments and agencies of government would take part in the celebration while 19 other organizations were expected to attend.