The Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has issued an urgent appeal to residents to prioritize personal and domestic hygiene, alongside proper waste management practices, to curb the spread of the disease.
Speaking from his office in Ijora Olopa, Dr. Gbadegesin addressed the alarming situation, which has resulted in fatalities and numerous hospitalizations. Cholera, a severe diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, spreads primarily through contaminated water and food and thrives in unsanitary conditions.
“The outbreak of cholera in the state is a serious public health concern,” stated Dr. Gbadegesin.
“It is imperative that every resident takes proactive measures to prevent further spread of the disease. Ensuring proper personal and domestic hygiene, including efficient waste management, will go a long way in curbing the spread of this fatal disease.”
Dr. Gbadegesin outlined several key preventative measures for residents to follow; Proper waste disposal, Ensuring safe drinking water, Frequent hand-washing with soap, Food safety practices, Use of proper sanitation facilities.
He emphasized the importance of avoiding indiscriminate refuse dumping and adopting the practice of bagging and disposing of waste using covered bins. This approach helps prevent disease spread by vectors and ensures seamless evacuation by assigned PSP operators.
LAWMA remains committed to managing the state’s waste effectively. “Our service providers are working around the clock to clean up black spots and ensure waste generated across the state is promptly and efficiently managed,” said Dr. Gbadegesin.
He further appealed to residents to consistently wash their hands after coming into contact with waste and to align with the state government’s environmental and health safety policies. He urged the public to avoid reckless waste dumping in drains, road medians, and other inappropriate areas.
“We are fully committed to the health and safety of every Lagosian,” Dr. Gbadegesin stressed.
“Our teams are on the ground, ensuring that waste is properly collected and disposed of to minimize health risks. However, we need the cooperation of all residents to maintain a clean and safe environment,” he stated.
LAWMA has long championed the importance of waste bagging and proper containment through various programs and initiatives. The agency continues to advocate for these practices to enhance public health and environmental cleanliness.
For more information about LAWMA’s initiatives and to support efforts to maintain a clean environment, residents are encouraged to visit www.lawma.gov.ng or call toll-free at 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617.
