The Lagos State Government has denied reports suggesting that transport unions have been assigned the environmental enforcement duties of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), also known as KAI.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, clarified this in a statement shared on his verified X account on Tuesday.
He explained that the government’s recent interaction with transport unions was aimed at improving environmental compliance within motor parks, garages, and other transport-related facilities across the state.
Wahab stressed that LAGESC, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Task Force, remains the only legally authorised body responsible for environmental enforcement under the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources.
He said the engagement was intended to encourage cooperation and shared responsibility among stakeholders in tackling sanitation issues within the transport sector.
According to him, challenges such as illegal trading, indiscriminate dumping of refuse, and poor waste management persist in parks, garages, and other transport hubs.
He added that the discussions with transport unions were focused on promoting cleanliness and proper waste disposal practices, rather than transferring enforcement powers to them.
The commissioner noted that the partnership would support, not replace, the statutory functions of existing environmental enforcement agencies in the state.
He further explained that the collaboration is expected to strengthen sanitation standards, improve stakeholder involvement, and enhance compliance with environmental regulations.
Wahab assured residents that maintaining a clean environment remains a key priority of the state government.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to continuous engagement with relevant stakeholders in efforts to build a cleaner and healthier Lagos.
The clarification follows public reactions to reports alleging that transport unions had been granted enforcement authority over environmental regulations in the state.
Lagos continues to face environmental pressures linked to rapid urban growth, rising population, and expanding commercial activities.
In response, the state government has stepped up environmental enforcement, waste management reforms, and public awareness campaigns through agencies such as LAGESC and the Environmental and Special Offences Task Force, while also working with community groups, market leaders, private operators, and transport associations to improve sanitation and environmental sustainability.