The Nigerian Navy’s 69th anniversary celebration saw the grand commissioning of three new ships, three helicopters, several accommodation units, and office blocks. The Western Naval Command (WNC) fostered the celebrations with a comprehensive environmental sanitation exercise across key areas of Apapa, Lagos state.
The initiative, a robust display of civil-military cooperation, saw a collaboration of naval personnel alongside the Lagos state Government agencies enhance urban cleanliness and promote responsible waste management.
The large-scale clean-up, targeted areas including Aremu Junction, Trailer Park, and the Marine Bridge axis, brought together agencies including the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), the Lagos State Waste Water Management Office (LAWMO), the Office of Environmental Services, and the Office of Drainage Services.
Participants actively engaged in clearing blocked drainage channels, removing accumulated refuse, and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate local residents and traders on sustainable waste disposal practices.
Alongside, a 72-hour ultimatum was given to operators of public facilities and businesses in Apapa to restore cleanliness and order in the area, as various environmental violations were identified, particularly in motor parks and mechanic workshops.
Activities such as motor boys sleeping in trucks, traders operating on roads, and mechanics using unauthorized spaces contributed to the disorder. Mechanics operating under the Marine Beach Bridge were given a 48-hour ultimatum to vacate the area. Meanwhile, motor boys, drivers, traders, and mechanics were engaged and educated on the importance of the exercise.
The Flag Officer Commanding WNC, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, emphasized that the exercise is a direct alignment with the Navy’s civil-military relations strategy and the strategic vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Engr. Kunle Rotimi Akodu also lauded the Navy’s proactive involvement, highlighting that the collaborative effort reflects a shared dedication to improving hygiene and urban cleanliness across the state.
Chairman of Apapa Local Government, Hon. Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo, also commended the timely initiative, encouraging other government agencies and private stakeholders to actively participate in similar community development efforts.