The Lagos State Government has called on businesses, including filling stations, banks, and eateries, to make their restroom facilities accessible to the public as part of efforts to curb open defecation.

Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, disclosed this in a statement shared on Saturday, noting that the move is aimed at improving sanitation across the state.

He said the government has already deployed 1,710 public toilets strategically located to serve residents and visitors.

Wahab, however, stressed that government efforts alone would not be sufficient to address the challenge, urging private establishments to support by allowing public access to their facilities where feasible.

According to him, the collaboration would significantly expand access to sanitation services and complement ongoing infrastructure development.

He added that enforcement of environmental sanitation laws is ongoing, with individuals caught engaging in open defecation being arrested and prosecuted.

The commissioner said the measures are necessary to safeguard public health, uphold human dignity and maintain a cleaner environment.

He emphasised that sanitation is a shared responsibility, calling on residents and businesses to contribute to keeping the state clean and habitable.