Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), has conveyed a commitment to enhancing effective waste management throughout the state in 2024. Providing this assurance during an interview on Lagos Traffic Radio on Friday,
Dr. Gbadegesin highlighted the dedicated efforts made in the previous year towards environmental transformation in Lagos State. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by LAWMA in collaboration with Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, in spearheading these initiatives.
“2023 was an eventful year with respect to the environment and waste management. The Lagos State Government was able to do a reset. Among the notable initiatives to restore sanity to the environment was the clearance of illegal dumpsites, street trading and closure of unsanitary markets, a collaborative effort with the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources and the Lagos Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC)”, he stated.
With a keen emphasis on sustainability, the head of LAWMA outlined the agency’s vision for 2024. The primary focus will be on recycling, particularly emphasizing plastic recycling and the conversion of organic waste into compost and bio-gas. The Managing Director/CEO stressed the continuation of initiatives such as waste sorting at the source and the buyback program, enabling residents to earn money from recyclables.
Addressing the issue of illegal street trading, the MD/CEO disclosed LAWMA’s intention to collaborate with local governments to enforce a zero-tolerance policy. Additionally, the agency plans to persist in enforcing environmental laws and encourages residents to make a resolution in the new year to become responsible environmental stewards.
He noted that, “This year, there will be no room for illegal street trading and all activities that promote indiscriminate waste disposal. We will be working closely with local government authorities and other stakeholders on this. I want to personally urge residents to turn a new leaf this year and take good care of their environment, health and hygiene”.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the state government has devised a strategy to empower PSP operators by assisting them in acquiring new trucks to enhance their operations throughout the metropolis. He appealed to residents to refrain from indiscriminate waste dumping, emphasizing the importance of obtaining covered bins through the Adopt a Bin initiative. The initiative also offers a flexible payment plan while residents await their assigned PSP operators.
To address any waste management-related concerns, individuals can reach out to LAWMA through toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA, 07080601020, and 617.
