Lagos has entered a tougher phase in its war against environmental abuse as the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) intensifies an aggressive crackdown on indiscriminate dumping across the state.
In a statement outlining the agency’s renewed push, Managing Director/CEO Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin said Lagos can no longer afford the reckless disposal habits that continue to endanger lives, worsen flooding, and pollute waterways.
He warned that every single refuse bag thrown into a drainage channel sets off a chain of environmental damage that eventually impacts the entire city.
To tackle this challenge head-on, LAWMA has deployed a stronger, intelligence-led enforcement model that monitors troubled zones, responds quickly to community alerts, and prosecutes offenders without delay.
The agency is no longer relying on occasional raids. Instead, it now operates a continuous enforcement system powered by surveillance teams, local intelligence, and direct community participation.
Dozens of offenders have already been arrested in recent days, including commercial tricycle operators caught dumping waste in unauthorized spots.
Dr. Gbadegesin emphasized that Lagos cannot truly achieve a clean, flood-resistant environment if violators continue to act without consequences.
One of the biggest breakthroughs in the new enforcement wave is the successful cleanup of a notorious black spot in Somolu LCDA.
LAWMA, working with Somolu LCDA, Bariga LCDA and support from the OPC, cleared the long-standing waste heap and secured the area with night and early-morning patrols to prevent its return.
Local council chairmen from Somolu and Bariga have now committed to ongoing collaboration with LAWMA, reaffirming the Ministry of Environment’s call for LGAs and LCDAs to take ownership of waste management in their communities.
To strengthen public understanding, LAWMA has expanded its radio outreach and digital engagement, pushing messages on recycling, proper bin usage, PSP operations, and penalties for environmental offences.
Dr. Gbadegesin urged Lagosians to support the mission by using covered bins, avoiding illegal cart pushers, patronising their assigned PSP operators, and reporting suspicious waste movement.
He noted that the government can enforce the laws, but only residents can build a culture of environmental responsibility. “A polluted environment eventually harms everyone. Cleanliness will only be achieved when enforcement meets public cooperation,” he said.
Residents can contact LAWMA through 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, 617, or via the official website.
