The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has reaffirmed its dedication to achieving a zero-waste Lagos, in line with global efforts to minimize waste and maximize resource recovery. Speaking on International Zero Waste Day, themed “Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles,” LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasized the urgency of adopting sustainable waste management practices. He highlighted the agency’s commitment to reducing landfill reliance, increasing recycling efforts, and promoting responsible waste disposal among residents.
Dr. Gbadegesin stressed that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility, and LAWMA remains committed to policies that support waste sorting, recycling, and waste-to-energy initiatives. However, he noted that achieving a cleaner Lagos requires the active participation of all residents. Over the years, LAWMA has intensified its recycling programs, working closely with waste management firms and introducing initiatives such as the ‘Adopt-a-Bin’ program to encourage proper waste sorting and disposal.
This year’s focus on fashion and textiles also brings attention to the impact of textile waste, which makes up about 8% of the 13,000 tonnes of waste generated daily in Lagos. To address this, LAWMA plans to prohibit textile waste disposal in landfills. Instead, the agency will collaborate with Tejuosho Market in Yaba to collect textile waste and send it to recycling companies. Additionally, students at the LAWMA Academy are being trained in upcycling textile waste into useful products, fostering sustainability while creating new economic opportunities.
LAWMA’s Waste-to-Wealth programs continue to expand, converting organic waste into compost and other valuable materials. The agency has also strengthened its partnerships with private-sector firms to increase the recycling of plastics, aluminum, and glass, further promoting a circular economy in Lagos. Significant progress has been made in waste conversion, with organic waste now being processed into compost for agricultural use.
Efforts to clean up Lagos’ waterways have also intensified, with ongoing cleanup operations along coastlines and drainage channels, particularly in flood-prone areas such as Five Cowries Creek. Dr. Gbadegesin reaffirmed LAWMA’s strict stance against environmental violations and urged Lagosians to support the zero-waste vision by adhering to waste management regulations, embracing recycling, and ensuring proper disposal through approved waste operators. He emphasized that community involvement remains essential to sustaining a cleaner and healthier environment.
For further inquiries or complaints, residents can contact LAWMA via its toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617, or send an email to info@lawma.gov.ng.
