“Open Your Toilets To The Public” — Lagos Tells Banks, Filling Stations, Others

The Lagos State Government has urged private businesses, including banks, filling stations, and eateries, to allow public access to their restroom facilities as part of broader efforts to improve sanitation and end open defecation across the state.

Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made the appeal in a statement shared on Saturday, highlighting the need for stronger collaboration between government and private sector operators.

According to Wahab, Lagos currently has 1,710 public toilets distributed across the state. However, he noted that existing facilities are insufficient to meet the needs of the growing population.

He said expanding access through privately owned, publicly accessible restrooms would help close the gap and improve hygiene standards in densely populated areas.

“The government cannot do this alone,” Wahab stated, adding that businesses with customer-facing operations are well positioned to support the initiative.

The commissioner also confirmed that authorities are enforcing sanitation laws, including the arrest and prosecution of individuals caught engaging in open defecation.

He said these measures are aimed at protecting public health, maintaining environmental standards, and preserving human dignity.

Wahab described access to sanitation as a shared responsibility, noting that while the government continues to invest in infrastructure, residents and businesses must also contribute to keeping the city clean and livable.