The Association of Professional Women Engineers of Nigeria, APWEN, Lagos Chapter has commemorated the 2024 International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies by calling for urgent action to improve air quality in the Ilaje Ayetoro Makoko community in Lagos State.
The theme for this year’s celebration: “Invest in Clean Air Now,”emphasized the importance of prioritizing and funding initiatives to tackle air pollution and safeguard public health.
In Lagos, air pollution remains a major issue, with industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and open waste burning contributing to a decline in air quality.
APWEN Lagos highlighted the severe health risks posed by these pollutants, particularly in densely populated areas like Makoko. The association stressed that addressing these challenges requires a combination of innovation, education, and active community engagement.
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainable development, APWEN Lagos recently organized a sensitization workshop on cholera and led a waterways cleanup in the Makoko community, which suffers from inadequate sanitation facilities.
The initiative sought to raise awareness about hygiene and environmental conservation while responding to the immediate needs of the community.
During the cleanup, APWEN members noted the urgent need for improved sanitation facilities in Makoko, where the absence of toilets has led to open defecation, worsening both water and air quality.
The Association called on the United Nations, international organizations, and government agencies to help provide sustainable infrastructure solutions, including proper waste management systems, which would improve both air and water quality in the community.
In addition to addressing sanitation issues, APWEN Lagos also announced plans to launch a training program in October to equip young female engineers with skills in solar energy systems.
This initiative is part of the association’s broader goal to promote clean energy solutions, which would reduce reliance on fossil fuels and contribute to better air quality.
APWEN Lagos urged stakeholders to join in its efforts to create a cleaner and healthier environment for all Nigerians, particularly in vulnerable communities like Makoko.
The Association’s chairperson, Engr. (Dr.) Atinuke Wuraola Owolabi, emphasized the importance of collective action in making a lasting impact, stating, “Together, we can make a difference and ensure blue skies for every Nigerian.”