Lagos State, Nigeria’s bustling economic powerhouse, has long grappled with complex environmental challenges. From waste management and flooding to pollution and urban sprawl, the city’s sustainability has often hung in the balance.
However, under the stewardship of Honorable Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Lagos is experiencing a remarkable transformation.
Since his appointment in September 2023, Wahab has emerged as a dynamic and visionary leader, implementing groundbreaking policies and projects to address the state’s environmental issues.
His hands-on approach, strategic foresight, and commitment to community engagement have set Lagos on a path toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.
Waste management has been a perennial problem in Lagos, but Wahab’s innovative “Waste-to-Wealth” program is changing the narrative. By establishing modern recycling plants, the program transforms the city’s daily waste into valuable resources such as compost, energy, and recyclable materials. This initiative not only reduces waste but also creates economic opportunities by integrating informal waste pickers into the formal economy.
In a further bold move, Wahab introduced a ban on single-use plastics, set to take full effect this January 2025. To support this transition, his ministry has launched extensive public education campaigns, encouraging residents and businesses to adopt sustainable alternatives and rethink their reliance on plastics.
Flooding, a significant threat to Lagosians, has received Wahab’s focused attention. His administration has undertaken proactive measures, including clearing major drainage systems in flood-prone areas such as the Lord Chosen Canal and Orchid Corridor.
These efforts have not only alleviated immediate flooding risks but also laid the groundwork for long-term resilience against climate-related challenges.
Recognizing the importance of nature in urban living, Wahab has prioritized the restoration and expansion of Lagos’ green spaces. Through the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK), his administration has launched tree-planting campaigns and rehabilitated parks, improving air quality and providing recreational areas for residents. These efforts underscore his belief that a vibrant city must balance urban development with ecological preservation.
Wahab has made environmental law enforcement a cornerstone of his tenure. Crackdowns on noise pollution, illegal dumping, and sanitation violations have brought much-needed relief to Lagosians. By holding offenders accountable, he is fostering a culture of compliance that ensures a healthier and more livable city for all.
One of Wahab’s most significant accomplishments is securing international support for Lagos’ environmental goals. A €120 million partnership with the Dutch government will establish a waste-to-energy facility capable of processing 2,500 to 3,000 tons of waste daily.
This project promises to not only reduce the city’s waste burden but also contribute to its energy needs, demonstrating Wahab’s ability to align local challenges with global solutions.
Honorable Tokunbo Wahab’s leadership is reshaping Lagos’ environmental landscape. From waste-to-wealth programs and flood mitigation to enforcing laws and restoring green spaces, his initiatives address the city’s immediate concerns while laying a foundation for long-term sustainability. His tenure is a testament to the power of visionary governance.
As Lagosians witness the tangible benefits of his efforts, Wahab continues to inspire hope and action, proving that with purposeful leadership, a cleaner, greener Lagos is not just an aspiration but an achievable reality.
This article celebrates Tokunbo Wahab’s achievements and invites every Lagosian to join in building a sustainable future for the city they call home.
