…Vows Zero Tolerance for Environmental Infractions
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has strengthened its commitment to tackling indiscriminate waste disposal across the state, combining strict enforcement with innovative waste management solutions. The agency has pledged full compliance with environmental laws, pursuing legal action against offenders while enhancing waste collection efforts.
Speaking on Lagos Talks 91.3 FM with the Guru on Monday, LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasized that surveillance and enforcement teams are operating round the clock to track and apprehend violators. He warned that offenders would face the full weight of the law to deter others from undermining the Authority’s efforts.
“Currently, we have about 50 cases in court involving individuals caught illegally dumping waste. Our enforcement team, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), has intensified monitoring efforts to ensure offenders are prosecuted,” Gbadegesin stated.
He revealed that over 300 illegal waste carts had been seized and slated for destruction, noting that many offenders were either new to Lagos or willfully disregarding the law—actions that would not be tolerated.
“We are taking a firm stance against this. Our surveillance teams work day and night to catch perpetrators in the act. Laws exist to be followed and enforced, ensuring we all live in a cleaner and healthier environment,” he added.
Expanding Waste-to-Wealth and Circular Economy Initiatives
Gbadegesin highlighted LAWMA’s ongoing innovations, including the expansion of the Waste-to-Wealth and Circular Economy initiatives aimed at reducing landfill dependence.
“We started asking ourselves—are these materials truly waste, or can they be repurposed? Now, we have a glass recycling plant in Lagos, and more people are realizing the economic potential in materials like PET bottles,” he explained.
To enhance waste collection in hard-to-reach areas like Ibeju Lekki, LAWMA has introduced tricycle compactors, with plans to extend the initiative across Lagos. This strategy addresses waste collection challenges in areas with poor road access, with a “pay-as-you-go” model set to roll out soon.
Strengthening Marine and Medical Waste Management
Gbadegesin also noted that LAWMA’s marine waste team continues daily cleanup efforts along coastlines, lagoons, and drainage channels, particularly at Five Cowries Creek. Additionally, the agency has expanded its advanced medical waste management system to cover not just hospitals but also beauticians and hairdressers who generate human tissue waste.
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Reaffirming LAWMA’s zero-tolerance policy on environmental infractions, he stressed that every Lagos resident has a role to play in keeping the city clean. From proper waste disposal through accredited PSP operators to cleaning gutters and sorting waste at source, he urged residents to comply with waste management regulations and report collection service issues to LAWMA instead of resorting to illegal dumping.
For inquiries, complaints, or updates, contact LAWMA via:
📞 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, 617
🌐 www.lawma.gov.ng
