Make your toilets accessible to public – Lagos urges banks, eateries

The Lagos State Government has urged banks, eateries and petrol stations to make their restrooms accessible to the public when possible as part of efforts to combat open defecation and improve public sanitation in the state.

Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab made the appeal in an X post on Saturday.

He disclosed that the state currently has 1,710 functioning public toilets for residents and visitors.

However, he said the support of organisations with public-facing facilities is necessary to expand access to sanitation facilities across the state.

Wahab said, “As part of our sustained efforts to eliminate open defecation and improve public sanitation across Lagos State, we currently have 1,710 functioning public toilets strategically located across the state for residents and visitors.

“However, government cannot do this alone. We are encouraging businesses such as filling stations, banks, eateries, and other public-facing facilities to make their restrooms accessible to the public where possible.

“This collaborative approach will significantly complement government efforts and expand access to sanitation facilities across the state.

“At the same time, we continue to enforce environmental sanitation laws. Individuals caught engaging in open defecation are being arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. These measures are necessary to protect public health, preserve dignity, and maintain a cleaner environment for all.

“Access to sanitation is a shared responsibility. While government continues to expand infrastructure, residents and businesses must also play their part in ensuring Lagos remains clean, safe, and habitable.”