The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, made this announcement on Monday, citing the need for a comprehensive evaluation of environmental compliance, waste management practices, and overall cleanliness within the market.

Emphasizing the non-negotiable importance of issues related to the environment, public health, and safety, Mr. Wahab declared that the government would not stand idly by as these essential values were compromised by the actions of a few individuals.

“We cannot continue to be nonchalant about our environment. Our negative attitude towards the environment must stop.

”The way we treat the environment, is the way the environment treats us. We cannot fold our arms and allow the nonchalance of a few, affect the generality of the people.

“Following full compliance with environmental standards and safety measures earlier listed as precondition for reopening shut markets, the Lagos State Government has ordered immediate reopening of Mile 12 International Market.

“Inspite of several advocacy and public enlightenment, government is left with no choice than to enforce. The enforcement exercise will be a continuous one, as no Government takes delight in shutting down markets,” Wahab said.

He urged the traders to play by the rules of acceptable standards, putting premium on hygiene for their health and that of the public, stressing that the government will not shy away from shutting down any market that returns to old filthy ways.

The extension is for both food markets and non-food markets in the State.

Gboyega Akosile, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, confirmed this in a series of tweets on Sunday.

Akosile explained that the decision was taken to further enhance trade and commerce and mitigate the hardship of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Akosile noted that the announcement was made in a statement by the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs in the state, Dr Wale Ahmed.

However, the alternate days of operations remain in force.

Food markets in Lagos are to open on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, while non-food markets will open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

He urged all traders to adhere strictly to the COVID-19 protocols for their safety and that of the residents at large.