By Dave Agboola
As Lagos State grapples with increasing levels of filth and decay, it is imperative for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to revisit and reinvigorate the Clean Lagos Initiative originally championed by former Governor Babatunde Fashola. The current state of our streets, littered with garbage and neglect, is not just an aesthetic issue; it is a reflection of our collective identity as a society and our attitude toward responsibility and civic duty.
Stepping outside in Lagos often reveals a distressing reality: many people abandon their sense of accountability once they leave the confines of their homes. The prevailing mindset, encapsulated in phrases like โIt’s not my businessโ or โThe government should fix it,โ perpetuates a culture of neglect. This mentality breeds environments where littering becomes second nature, contributing to the degradation of our public spaces. Whereas, these are the same people complaining that Lagos smells! In stark contrast, developed nations showcase how conscientious waste disposal can transform urban landscapes, highlighting that our choices have both individual and collective repercussions.
The way we dispose of waste as Nigerians is a direct confirmation of who we are and how seriously we take our communal responsibilities. The notion that a clean environment is a government issue rather than a societal imperative must be dismantled. Imagine a Lagos free from the burden of garbage; the positive impact on our quality of life would be immeasurable. We cannot afford to further complicate the challenges of living in this city by adding filth to our vulnerabilities.
To effect meaningful change, we must begin fostering a culture of proactive waste management within our communities. Every citizen has a role to playโwhether itโs holding on to trash until reaching a bin, selecting alternative disposal methods when bins are full, or even encouraging others to treat public spaces with respect. These seemingly small actions, when adopted collectively, can lead to significant improvements in our environment. It is through such conscious efforts that we can transform our streets into cleaner, safer, and more inviting spaces.
Governor Sanwo-Oluโs administration has the opportunity to reignite the vision of a cleaner Lagos by launching robust campaigns and initiatives aimed at restoring pride in our city. This includes not only enforcing stricter waste disposal laws but also investing in education and community engagement to reshape public attitudes toward cleanliness. It is time to shift the narrative from one of neglect to one of pride, where every citizen feels a sense of ownership over their environment.
Let us collectively play our part. The revival of the Clean Lagos Initiative is not merely a government endeavor; it is a societal responsibility that requires the engagement and commitment of every Lagosian. Together, we can reclaim our streets from the grip of litter and filth and create a cleaner, more vibrant Lagos for generations to come. The time to act is now. Letโs do better.
Dave writes from Lagos State
