Skip to main content

Plight of Mile 12 International Market: Residents Cry for Reopening






The recent closure of Mile 12 International Market by the Lagos State Ministry of Environment through the Lagos State Waste Management Authority has raised concerns and generated various negative impacts on the residents of the community and its environs. The timing of this closure is particularly critical as many households in Lagos State and Nigeria at large are still grappling with economic challenges caused by the removal of fuel subsidy.

Mile 12 International Market, often regarded as the best perishable food market in Sub-Saharan Africa, has a commendable track record of maintaining a clean environment. This achievement can be attributed to various innovative practices and infrastructural developments introduced since the beginning of the administration of the market's Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Usman.

The market has set high standards for perishable food markets and continually improved its facilities and hygiene practices. While it is essential for the government to ensure that all markets maintain cleanliness and hygiene, the closure of Mile 12 Market appears to be a severe measure for addressing any infractions, which might be the result of human errors.

In light of the significance of Mile 12 International Market to the survival of many households and its role in the economy, it is imperative to appeal to the state government to consider reopening the market. The closure, without a doubt, has placed operators, traders, and households in a precarious economic situation. This action threatens to exacerbate the hardships faced by the citizens amidst the ongoing economic challenges resulting from the fuel subsidy removal. 

An interview with an anonymous trader in the market reveals the market's commitment to maintaining cleanliness. Since the beginning of Chairman Alhaji Shehu Usman's administration, the market has instituted a robust team of over 200 youths responsible for daily cleaning operations. Additionally, the market conducts intensive cleaning every Thursday of the week and on the last day of each month.

The market's executive committee is stringent in its commitment to sanitation, not only because it is Nigeria's largest perishable food hub but also because it deals mainly with consumables. The focus on cleanliness is driven by the concern for the health of the community residents, including all market executives and their relatives.

To further ensure the cleanliness of the market, two refuse bins are permanently stationed at strategic locations beside market gate 4. These bins make it convenient for traders and shoppers to dispose of their waste, ensuring the efficient collection by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).

We appeal to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, to consider the economic impact of the market's closure, especially during a time when many households are facing challenges due to the removal of the fuel subsidy. The reopening of Mile 12 International Market would not only alleviate the suffering of its operators and traders but also contribute to the economic well-being of countless families and residents.

In conclusion, while recognizing the government's responsibility to ensure clean and hygienic markets, it is crucial to strike a balance between enforcing regulations and supporting the livelihoods of the people. Mile 12 International Market has demonstrated its commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, and any infractions should be addressed with a focus on correction rather than complete closure.


®Lagos Community News Review

14th Of October, 2023

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Happy Birthday Hon. (Mrs) Olayinka Oladunjoye

On behalf of the good people of the Lagos East Senatorial District,  I heartily congratulate my dear sister, the Honourable Federal Commissioner, representing Lagos State at the National Population Commission, NPC, Hon. (Mrs) Olayinka Saidat Oladunjoye on the ocassion on her birthday. I celebrate her many accomplishments as an astute grassroot politician and public administrator. The immense contributions she made to the development of our great State are well acknowledged. On this special day, I join her family and numerous well-wishers in wishing her a happy birthday. I pray that Almighty God grants her more years in sound health and prosperity. Ameen. Congratulations and happy birthday! Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo and Mrs Feyisola Abiru

Mayoress Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada Distributes Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu's Food Palliatives to Ikosi Isheri Residents

In a heartening display of solidarity and support, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu's food palliatives were distributed to the residents of Ikosi Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) today. The distribution, orchestrated by the Mayoress and her team, exemplifies the Lagos State Government's dedication to alleviating the challenges faced by its citizens during these unprecedented times. The food palliatives, comprising over 5,000 crates of eggs, bread, yams, and various other essential items, were distributed to party faithfuls and residents across Ikosi Isheri LCDA. Simultaneously, similar distributions took place across the 20 LGs and 37 LCDAs in the state, underscoring the widespread reach and impact of the government's relief efforts. Speaking at the event, the Mayoress expressed profound gratitude to Governor Sanwo-Olu, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Lagosians. "Mr. Governor is very much concerned about the people of Ikosi Isher

WHO IS KAFILAT OGBARA

  Mrs. Kafilat Ogbara was born to Alhaji and Alhaja M. Ade. Kasumu’s family in Aiyepe Ogun State. She attended Adrao International School in Victoria Island and Federal Home Science PSchool Ikoyi, Lagos respectively. Her Secondary School Education was at Federal Government Girls College Langtang, Plateau State. A graduate of English Language and Literature from the University of Lagos, she also acquired her Masters Degree in International Law and Diplomacy and another Masters Degree in Public Administration all from the University of Lagos. Mrs. Kafilat Ogbara started her career in Property and Facility Management in the Family Business. She had a background in the prints and Electronic Media as a Television Presenter on NTA on the programme ‘Faces and Events’, Publisher of Today's Prime newspaper, and the former Managing Director/ CEO of National Mirror Newspaper in the print media. She is a dedicated and committed member of the All Progressive Congress, a strong supporter and