NIGERIA: LGSG Cautions Against Unauthorised Use Of Public Spaces For Charitable Activities

By Hamzat Ameenat, Lagos, Nigeria

The Lagos State Government has cautioned residents against using public spaces, particularly road medians, for charitable or commercial activities without proper authorisation, following an incident in the Admiralty area of Lekki Phase 1.

In a statement issued by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, the government confirmed that an individual was apprehended by officials of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC/KAI) for engaging in unauthorised cooking activities on a road median.

According to the statement, the individual claimed to be conducting a charitable cooking outreach. However, the ministry emphasised that such activities contravene the state’s environmental and sanitation regulations.

While commending the philanthropic intent, the government reiterated that all acts of community support must comply with existing laws to ensure public safety, environmental protection, and urban order.

The ministry stated: “The administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to fostering a clean, sustainable, and livable Lagos for all. Unauthorised use of public spaces, such as road medians, poses significant risks, including damage to infrastructure, health hazards, and disruption to traffic flow.”

The statement explained that enforcement measures, including arrests and removal of equipment, are part of the #KeepLagosClean and #ZeroToleranceLagos campaigns designed to preserve the state’s aesthetics and ensure environmental discipline.

The government further encouraged residents and organisations involved in charitable activities to seek necessary approvals or partner with relevant agencies for guidance on compliant practices.

It added that a collaborative approach would “amplify the impact of goodwill while safeguarding Lagos’ shared urban spaces.”