The Lagos State Government and JONSPONG, a Ghanaian Waste Management company, inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Monday to handle solid and liquid waste within the state. Commissioner of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, and Executive Chairman of JOSPONG Group, Dr. Joseph Agyepong, endorsed the MOU, aiming to establish a Material Recovery Facility to alleviate downstream pressure on landfills. Additionally, the MOU entails deploying Compact/Mobile Transfer loading stations to supplant current stationary plants and alleviate waste congestion in areas like markets.
During the event, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab emphasized the significance of the MOU as a pivotal step in revolutionizing waste management across Lagos State. He acknowledged the intricate challenges posed by solid and liquid waste management in a rapidly expanding megacity like Lagos, with its vibrant populace, bustling markets, and dynamic industries. Wahab underscored the government’s obligation to confront these challenges proactively as custodians of the city’s future. He underscored that partnering with the Jospong Group, renowned for its environmental and waste management services in Africa, represents a significant stride in the government’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for Lagosians through efficient waste management practices.
“As we gather to sign this Memorandum of Understanding between the Lagos State Government and the Jospong Group of Ghana; we are not just signing a document; we are inaugurating a partnership that embodies our shared vision for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos,” he said.
The Commissioner highlighted that the two entities will establish integrated solid and liquid waste management facilities to address both current and future needs driven by the growing population. He emphasized that the collaboration will center on technology, advocacy, enforcement, and the promotion of circular economy initiatives such as recycling, composting, reuse, and waste-to-energy projects. These initiatives are crucial for reducing the environmental impact of waste, generating employment opportunities, and fostering sustainable development in Lagos.
He reiterated that achieving effective and efficient waste management in the State demands dedication, innovation, and collaboration, emphasizing its potential to contribute to the economic and environmental well-being of the city. Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Executive Chairman of the Jospong Group of Companies, underscored the critical importance of environmental sanitation for public health, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal No. 6 on Clean Water & Sanitation.
Dr. Agyepong lamented the ongoing suffering of millions due to inadequate access to infrastructure, proper sanitation facilities, and water treatment. Citing a report by the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), he noted that the state produces approximately 13,000 tons of waste daily, with Jospong’s focus primarily on downstream waste management rather than waste collection. He assured waste collectors of support through equipment provision to enhance their effectiveness and efficiency and pledged to supply 2000 Tricycles to aid the Association of Waste Managers in Lagos with waste collection.
The collaboration will involve the Lagos State Government and its agencies, including the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO), aiming for an overall enhancement of waste management in Lagos State. Dr. Tajudeen Omobolaji Gaji, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Environmental Services, emphasized the challenges faced by Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, including over-population, increasing environmental pollution, and waste management issues, which are priorities for the Administration.
“With the Memorandum of Understanding we are signing today, I believe it is a new dawn for the City of Lagos and in no time we will have issues related to solid waste management becoming a history. I very much look forward to seeing fruits of our collaboration, for a clean and healthier Lagos” he stated.
The event also welcomed the presence of Lagos State Commissioners for Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, alongside Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Taiwo Afinnih, Chairman of the Committee on Environment Parastatal, Hon. Rasheed Shabi, and Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Mr. Abdulkabir Ogungbo. Additionally, numerous stakeholders from Ghana and the financial sector participated in the event, underscoring the broad spectrum of expertise and interests engaged in the collaborative efforts towards enhanced waste management in Lagos State.
