The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) partnered with United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and Government of Japan in launching a collaborative project aimed at preventing cholera outbreaks in Lagos. This initiative seeks to address environmental challenges contributing to waterborne diseases in the state, aligning with LASEPA’s mandate to protect and improve the environment.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment, emphasized the need to equip informal vendors and waste workers with the necessary knowledge, tools, and resources to prevent future outbreaks.

The Governor noted that Lagos State faces unique vulnerabilities due to rapid urbanization, poor water and sanitation infrastructure, and frequent flooding, which have contributed to recurring cholera outbreaks. He commended the General Manager and team at the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and UNIDO for championing the project.

The project will adopt a participatory training model, combining workshops with hands-on demonstrations tailored for informal vendors and waste workers across flood-prone areas of Lagos State. A community-based learning approach will engage local stakeholders directly in identifying risks while promoting solutions that resonate with their unique circumstances.

The Governor urged all stakeholders to act as hygiene ambassadors within their communities, spreading awareness about cholera prevention and advocating for improved sanitation infrastructure and policy enforcement. He expressed gratitude to all partners involved in the initiative and emphasized the Lagos State Government’s commitment to safeguarding public health through robust environmental protection policies and strategic partnerships.

Dr. Babatunde Ajayi, General Manager of LASEPA, said the agency has partnered with the Japanese government to launch a 12-month project aimed at preventing cholera outbreaks in the state. The project, valued at $250,000, seeks to address environmental challenges contributing to waterborne diseases in Lagos.

*Addressing Environmental Challenges*
Dr. Babatunde Ajayi emphasized LASEPA’s role in championing environmental protection to improve the quality of life for Lagosians and prevent diseases. He highlighted the need for residents to take ownership of environmental protection efforts, including reporting instances of open defecation and improper waste disposal. Dr. Babatunde Ajayi noted that LASEPA’s entire value is centered around making Lagos more livable, improving quality of life, and preventing diseases.

*Project Expectations*
Dr. Babatunde Ajayi said the agency expects residents to take more proactive steps in protecting the environment. This includes reporting individuals who defecate openly and ensuring that people do not dispose of waste indiscriminately. Dr. Babatunde Ajayi emphasized that with over 1,700 public toilets and filling stations available, there is no excuse for open defecation.

*Project Monitoring and Evaluation*
Dr. Babatunde Ajayi explained that to ensure the project’s success, LASEPA will implement a robust monitoring and evaluation system. This includes assessing the impact of advocacy efforts on food handlers and water sellers, testing water quality from various sources, and providing treatment solutions for non-potable water. Dr. Babatunde Ajayi said the agency will also work to ensure that water handlers and sellers adhere to proper hygiene practices.

*Enforcement of Regulations*
Dr. Babatunde Ajayi emphasized the importance of consequences for non-compliance with environmental regulations. The agency will impose fines, sealings, and confiscation of items contributing to environmental problems. Dr. Babatunde Ajayi said the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission will continue to regulate water vendors, ensuring they adhere to established regulations.

*Community Engagement*
Dr. Babatunde Ajayi encouraged community involvement in preventing cholera outbreaks. Residents are urged to take advantage of the available public toilets and report instances of open defecation. Dr. Babatunde Ajayi said that by working together, LASEPA and the community can create a healthier environment and reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.

Dr. Babatunde Ajayi is confident that water vendors are well-regulated by the Lagos State Water Regulatory Commission. Vendors are expected to adhere to established regulations, and those operating outside of these regulations will face consequences.


The General Manager believes the partnership between LASEPA and the Japanese government marks a significant step towards preventing cholera outbreaks in Lagos. By addressing environmental challenges, enforcing regulations, and engaging the community, Dr. Babatunde Ajayi is confident that the project will have a positive impact on the health and well-being of Lagosians.

Mr. Osuji Otu, National Programme Officer at UNIDO, emphasized that the initiative aims to support Lagos State’s efforts in responding to cholera outbreaks with effective prevention and containment measures.

The National Programme Officer noted that the project focuses on building the capacity of informal food and water vendors and waste workers in flood-affected areas to combat cholera outbreaks. He highlighted that key activities include conducting gender-responsive training for informal food and water vendors on cholera prevention, training formal and informal waste workers on safe handling to reduce transmission risks, supplying essential tools like rapid test kits, reagents, and water purification kits for outbreak preparedness, and organizing awareness campaigns and outreach to integrate the informal sector into emergency response efforts.

Mr. Otu stressed that Lagos, Nigeria’s largest urban center, experiences persistent cholera outbreaks exacerbated by rapid urbanization, inadequate potable water and sanitation infrastructure, and climate change-induced flooding. He emphasized that the informal sector, including food and water vendors and waste workers, are particularly vulnerable due to limited access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services.

He expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan for funding the project and to the Government of Nigeria, Lagos State Government, and implementing partners for their support. He noted that the project will help minimize the devastating impact of cholera outbreaks on public health, livelihoods, and Lagos State’s economic stability.

Mrs. Omolabake Mosaku, Lagos State Chairperson of ATWA, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Government, and Government of Japan for its efforts, stating that the initiative will further support the association’s activities in providing clean and safe water to the populace.

The Chairperson highlighted the association’s existing measures to ensure water quality, including self-regulation, where members shut down facilities once a week to clean and maintain equipment. She noted that the initiative will provide additional resources, such as kits, to enhance water quality and production.

She emphasized the importance of regulation in the packaged water industry, citing collaboration with regulatory bodies like NAFDAC and LASWARCO. She stated that the association ensures its members renew licenses on time, undergo regular facility inspections, and adhere to good manufacturing practices.