Globacom, through its charity platform Glo Foundation, held a special appreciation event on Saturday to celebrate the frontline workers of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) who sweep the streets of Lagos daily.
Held at LAWMA’s Ijora Olopa office, the event brought together hundreds of sweepers from across all Local Government Areas and LCDAs in the state. For once, the spotlight was turned on these silent heroes as they danced, laughed, and participated in raffle draws that handed out life-enhancing gifts like sewing machines, inverter microwave ovens, and grinding machines.
The Foundation announced that beyond the day’s fun, it would roll out empowerment and skills acquisition programs for the sweepers. These would include training in fashion design, online marketing, social media management, vocational trades, and e-commerce—all geared toward helping them build alternative income streams.
Head of the Glo Foundation, Jumobi Mofe-Damijo, explained the motive behind the initiative: “We see your effort every day, often carried out in dangerous conditions and with little recognition. This is our way of saying thank you and also helping you build a better future beyond the broom and the dust.”
She noted that Glo Foundation would replicate similar initiatives in other parts of Nigeria.
LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, praised Globacom for honoring the sweepers and urged other corporate entities to emulate the gesture. “These workers play a vital role in keeping Lagos healthy and habitable. Recognizing them this way is a morale booster,” he said.
For the sweepers, it was a rare moment of joy. Aniekwe Rejoice Ifeoma, who sells Zobo and Tigernut drinks in her spare time, said the event lifted her spirits and gave her renewed motivation. She is also learning digital skills to expand her income base.
Another attendee, Awolaja Esther, who has served with LAWMA for 15 years and is currently supporting two children in university, said the recognition made her proud of her work. “This is the first time someone is celebrating us this way,” she beamed.
One of the big winners, Dorcas Adeniji from Oshodi, could hardly contain her excitement after winning a grinding machine. Adewusi Bisola of Alakuko, who took home an inverter microwave oven, was cheered on by her ecstatic colleagues. Ige Sadatu, who received a sewing machine, expressed deep appreciation to Globacom.
With this initiative, Glo Foundation not only brought joy to Lagos street sweepers but also reignited the dignity of their labour—offering them both recognition and the tools to build brighter, self-sustained futures.A
