In a decisive move to restore order and environmental hygiene around the bustling Apapa axis, the Lagos State Government has issued a strict 48-hour ultimatum to motor boys, traders, and operators of mechanic workshops occupying the space beneath the Ijora-Marine Bridge to vacate the premises immediately.
This directive forms part of a comprehensive clean-up exercise jointly spearheaded by the Lagos State Government and the Nigerian Navy, Western Naval Command. The initiative aims at tackling the severe environmental infractions and disorder that have long plagued the Apapa area, a critical transport and commercial hub in Lagos State.
Speaking exclusively to journalists after the initial phase of the clean-up exercise, Mr. Kunle Rotimi-Akodu, Special Adviser on Environment to the Lagos State Governor, emphasized the significance of the collaboration. According to him, the partnership between the State Government and the Nigerian Navy represents a strategic alliance intended to produce lasting improvements in the environment and overall quality of life for residents.
“The clean-up of Apapa and its environs is a beautiful marriage between Lagos State and the Naval authorities. This joint initiative is expected to create meaningful positive impact by improving the well-being of all residents,” Rotimi-Akodu stated.
During a site inspection, the clean-up team observed widespread violations, including unauthorized trading, improper waste disposal, and mechanic workshops contributing to pollution under the bridge and surrounding areas. These infractions, the official noted, are not only detrimental to public health but also contribute to traffic congestion and undermine safety protocols.
Rotimi-Akodu revealed that the authorities have engaged stakeholders in the affected area to ensure compliance with the new regulations. “We have met with everyone – motor boys, traders, and mechanics – to communicate clearly what must be done and what must cease. While corrections are necessary, there is a shared willingness to comply for the sake of a cleaner environment.”
The 48-hour ultimatum to vacate is intended to give residents a fair timeframe to relocate, with follow-up inspections planned to enforce the new directives rigorously. “Our goal is to restore sanity and ensure that Apapa can operate efficiently as a key logistics hub,” he added.
Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, reiterated the Navy’s commitment to the operation. “This clean-up exercise is part of what the military calls civil-military engagement, where we collaborate with civilian authorities to maintain public order. Since the Navy is a stakeholder in the Apapa area, we have mobilized our men to partner with Lagos State environmental agencies to ensure the success of this initiative,” he explained.
Rear Admiral Oamen emphasized the need for sustained efforts, stating that the clean-up would become a regular activity. “Cleanliness is key to security. Once the environment is well-organized, it enhances security and reduces the risk of criminal activities,” he said.
Coinciding with the Lagos State directive, the Federal Government has announced the closure of the Lagos Ijora-Marine Bridge for a period of 21 days to facilitate repairs and maintenance that will complement the clean-up effort. This temporary closure is expected to improve the long-term structural integrity of the bridge and reduce vehicular congestion once reopened.
While the clean-up and regulatory enforcement are crucial for the environment and public safety, the move will affect the livelihoods of traders and mechanics currently operating under the bridge. Authorities have assured that alternative sites and support will be considered to mitigate adverse economic impacts.
The clean-up initiative is timely, given Apapa’s critical role as a gateway to Lagos ports, facilitating Nigeria’s import and export activities. Improving sanitation and infrastructure in this area is vital for both economic efficiency and the health of Lagos residents.