The Lagos State Government (LASG) has urged residents to comply with environmental laws by maintaining a clean environment to curtail pollution.
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Omobolaji Gaji, made the call during the Environmental Advocacy on Attitudinal Change in Coastal Communities in the state on Thursday in Ikorodu.
Gaji was represented at the event by Mrs. Monsurat Banire, the Director, Environmental Education Unit (EEU), Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.
The theme of the programme was: “From Awareness to Action: Enhancing Coastal Safety Through Environmental Education.”
“Today’s advocacy on attitudinal change in coastal communities strikes at the heart of various environmental challenges that directly affect the flora and fauna.
“It also focuses on targeted responses to the growing environmental crisis that threatens the coastal ecosystem’s sustainability.
“Lagos, as a low-lying coastal state, is particularly vulnerable to flooding. With increasing rainfall intensity, rising sea levels, and poor waste disposal habits, the coastal zones are at risk more than ever.
“The impacts are visible. The reality demands urgent, coordinated action, not just from government institutions, but from every member of the community, a stakeholder ownership,” he said.
He added that community environmental advocacy goes beyond awareness.
“It inspires behavioural change, empowers communities with practical knowledge, and fosters a sense of shared responsibility.
“It equips residents with knowledge on flood risk management and early warning systems, promoting environmental best practices such as keeping drains clear.
“Lagos State is actively investing in drainage rehabilitation, shoreline protection, and community sensitisation,” he said.
He called on market associations, artisans, and residents to discourage indiscriminate waste disposal, avoid building on floodplains, and embrace sustainable sanitation and hygiene practices.
“As we engage in today’s programme, let us move beyond discussions. Let’s all walk the talk, imbibe attitudinal change, commit to sustainable actions in our lifestyle, influence others, and be change agents.
“We all have a role to play in flood prevention and coastal communities’ safety. Let this advocacy serve as a catalyst for ongoing grassroots participation, innovation, and accountability,” he said.
Earlier in her welcome address, Mrs. Olufunke Olaleye, the Deputy Director, EEU, said flooding had become one of the most pressing challenges facing coastal communities across the globe, noting that Lagos State was not exempt.
According to her, in recent times, Lagos has witnessed an alarming increase in the frequency and severity of floods caused by climate change and human-induced activities.
Olaleye highlighted the human-induced activities as poor waste disposal, unplanned urban development, blockage of drainage channels, and disregard for environmental regulations.
“We have conducted our surveillance visits to several coastal communities across the three senatorial districts of the state.
“This exercise is carried out in partnership with local government officials and officials of environmental health.
“It enables us to identify and document environmentally harmful practices that increase the risk of flooding and environmental degradation,” she said.
Major Olaniyi Olatunbosun, Lagos State Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Marshal, called for more advocacy, continuous sensitisation, and education.
Olatunbosun said these efforts were aimed at informing the public about the hazards and effects of polluting the environment and depleting the air.
In her remarks, Princess Busola Isikalu, Iyaloja General of Ikorodu Division, who was represented by Alhaja Akasoro Hamzat, said a clean environment was fundamental to human existence and good health.
Isikalu urged the public to work together to ensure the environment was kept clean to reduce the risk of imminent diseases.
She promised to continue the advocacy among market men and women in the division.
Also, Elder Ishola Ogunjimi, Chairman, Community Development Committee, called on the Lagos State Government to employ more environmental sanitation officers for enforcement and compliance to curb environmental pollution.
Ogunjimi also urged the state government to bring back the monthly environmental sanitation exercise.
He called on the government to enforce the use of waste bags or dustbins by all households and promised to continue the advocacy and reporting of human-induced activities to the ministry.
Mr. Kayode Olomo, Secretary, Council of Baales in Ikorodu, urged the ministry to create an emergency direct line where environmental issues could be reported.