Lagos State Government has called on banks, fuel stations, restaurants, and other customer-facing businesses to open their restroom facilities to the public, as part of intensified efforts to tackle poor sanitation and end open defecation across the state.
Gatekeepers News reports that the appeal was made by the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who shared the update via his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Saturday.
He highlighted that although the state has made notable progress in providing public sanitation infrastructure, more support is needed from private operators to meet the needs of Lagos’ rapidly growing population.
“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”, the statement said partly.”
Officials say Lagos, as one of Africa’s most populous cities, continues to face sanitation pressure due to urbanisation, with many areas still lacking sufficient toilet facilities. This has contributed to cases of open urination and defecation, which pose environmental hazards and increase the risk of disease outbreaks such as cholera and diarrhoea-related illnesses.
Wahab explained that involving the private sector would significantly widen access to clean and safe sanitation, while complementing ongoing government investments in public toilet construction and maintenance. He also noted that authorities have stepped up enforcement of sanitation laws, particularly against offenders.
“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”, he added.
He further disclosed that individuals caught engaging in open defecation are being arrested and prosecuted, in line with existing environmental regulations.
The initiative forms part of broader strategies by the state government to improve hygiene standards, promote behavioural change, and align with national and global sanitation goals.
