Lagos State has sealed Balmoral Convention Centre in Victoria Island and Foodies Restaurant in Lekki Phase 1 over improper wastewater disposal into public drains, intensifying enforcement against environmental violations across the state.
The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Commissioner for the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, through his official X account.
The enforcement followed investigations, which revealed that both establishments discharged untreated wastewater into drainage systems, causing pollution, foul odour, and public health concerns despite previous warnings.
What they are saying
According to Wahab, Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) shut Balmoral Convention Centre after authorities discovered raw sewage was being pumped directly into public drains, alongside wastewater overflow from a blocked sewage chamber.
The agency noted that the violations created severe environmental pollution, drainage contamination, and a persistent public nuisance in the area.
- “Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) on Tuesday 5th May, 2026, sealed off Balmoral Convention Centre, Victoria Island over indiscriminate discharge of raw sewage into the public drain via the use of a pumping machine and unattended Wastewater spillage from a blocked sewage chamber causing public nuisance and foul smell.”
Foodies Restaurant at No. 32B Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, was also sealed for discharging untreated wastewater containing fats and oils into public drains.
The agency said the restaurant’s actions contributed to blocked drainage channels, environmental pollution, and repeated nuisance despite earlier compliance warnings.
Get up to speed
Lagos State has continued to intensify action against residential and commercial properties violating wastewater management regulations in recent months.
In January 2026, the state sealed a residential estate at No. 96 Ladipo Omotesho Street, Lekki Phase 1, over environmental nuisance and obstruction of enforcement officials.
In September 2025, EMCEL Court Phase I and Well Stock Apartments in Ikota GRA, Eti-Osa, were shut for illegal wastewater discharge.
In April 2026, Viva Bella Court II in Lekki Peninsula was sealed for deliberate release of untreated wastewater and septic tank spillage into public drains.
What you should know
Lagos State recently resumed its monthly environmental sanitation exercise on Saturday, April 25, 2026, as part of wider efforts to maintain environmental cleanliness and reduce flooding risks.
The sanitation exercise is designed to promote collective environmental responsibility across the state.
- It is backed by enforcement from relevant state agencies to ensure compliance.
- The sanitation exercise was previously suspended in November 2016 following a court ruling against movement restrictions.
- The state also enforces penalties, including fines and up to three months imprisonment, for illegal dumping and littering.
The renewed sanitation drive, alongside stricter wastewater enforcement, signals Lagos State’s determination to strengthen environmental governance and improve public health outcomes.
