To enhance waste management in Lagos State, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has unveiled a comprehensive strategy led by its Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin. A key component of this initiative is the planned acquisition of 100 compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks to strengthen the waste collection efforts of Private Sector Participants (PSPs). This announcement was made during a stakeholders’ interactive forum on sustainable waste management held at the Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos.
In his presentation, Gbadegesin highlighted LAWMA’s achievements and future initiatives to address the 5.46 million tonnes of waste generated annually by the state’s 23 million residents. He emphasized the authority’s commitment to ensuring effective waste collection, treatment, and disposal as part of its broader mission to improve the cleanliness and sustainability of Lagos.
“We are dedicated to delivering efficient waste management services to all Lagosians. Our team manages domestic, commercial, and medical waste, currently sweeping 963 routes and handling solid waste from Lagos’ waterways,” Gbadegesin stated.
Highlighting the importance of private partnerships, he noted that LAWMA collaborates with 420 PSP operators who manage a substantial portion of household waste. He also pointed out the critical role of over 16,000 street sweepers in maintaining cleanliness across the city’s major roads.
The agency’s recent initiatives to promote recycling were also emphasized, particularly through the introduction of a two-bin system for household waste separation—one for general waste and another for recyclables. “This new system will help reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills while encouraging recycling at the source,” Gbadegesin added. Community recycling centers have been established, and LAWMA is partnering with retail outlets to support extended producer responsibility.
In alignment with the Lagos State government’s T.H.E.M.E.S.+ agenda, which focuses on health and environmental sustainability, Gbadegesin announced that LAWMA is exploring waste-to-energy projects, including the revival of a biogas plant at Ketu Fruit Market to convert organic waste into energy. “Our goal is to leverage advanced technology to transform waste into valuable resources, reduce dependence on landfills, and contribute to Lagos’ energy needs,” he explained.
Additionally, Gbadegesin discussed ongoing efforts to tackle marine waste and hazardous materials, with plans to increase recycling rates by 25% over the next three years. The agency is also looking to transform waste disposal sites into eco-parks and treatment facilities.
Other stakeholders at the event expressed their support for LAWMA’s initiatives. Mr. Rotimi Akodu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, emphasized the need for collaboration between public and private sectors to create a cleaner, more sustainable environment. Dr. Omobolaji Gaji, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, underscored the urgency of addressing the waste challenges facing Lagos.
LAWMA’s Executive Director, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, introduced the agency’s “Adopt-a-bin” initiative, which aims to promote the use of waste containers. He explained that the forum provided a valuable opportunity to explore effective strategies for addressing the city’s growing waste management needs.
Doyin Oyefusi, Head of Marketing at Wastecare Solutions, presented LAWMA’s new smart bins, equipped with RFID chips for tracking waste collection, geolocation for easy retrieval, and color-coding for waste separation. Engr. Mayowa Elefin, Managing Director of Maladase Ecopreneur Management, discussed the environmental benefits of recycling, highlighting its role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving natural resources.
The forum concluded with a Q&A session where stakeholders engaged in discussions about critical waste management issues.
Residents with waste management concerns are encouraged to contact LAWMA through its toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.
