The Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has reiterated the agency’s dedication to modernizing waste management and leveraging the circular economy’s potential to drive sustainability and economic growth in Lagos.
Speaking during a radio interview hosted by the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy on Eko FM, Dr. Gbadegesin outlined LAWMA’s ambitious plans, including the establishment of a waste-to-energy plant in Epe and the conversion of the Olusosun and Solus-3 landfills into material recovery facilities.
He emphasized the importance of transforming the city’s waste management system from collection to disposal by introducing innovative solutions. “The idea of the war on waste is to discourage indiscriminate dumping and highlight the value of recyclable materials like plastics, paper, aluminum cans, and textiles. Recycling currently accounts for less than 10 percent of waste management in Lagos, but with our growing population, we must generate economic value and create green job opportunities,” he said.
The waste-to-energy plant in Epe, a cornerstone of LAWMA’s sustainability strategy, is designed to convert 2,500 tons of waste daily into 60 to 80 megawatts of electricity. This facility will provide power to key industrial hubs, including the Free Trade Zone, Dangote Refinery, and the deep-sea port. Additional facilities in Ojota and Igando are planned for waste separation into organic materials and metals, moving Lagos away from landfill dependency.
Dr. Gbadegesin also highlighted other innovative initiatives such as the LAWMA Academy, the Adopt-a-Bin system, and partnerships with private sector participants (PSPs). The LAWMA Academy, established three years ago, promotes environmental consciousness among children and teenagers, cultivating a new generation of environmental ambassadors. The Adopt-a-Bin system encourages proper waste segregation and containerization, streamlining waste collection for PSP operators.
To further enhance efficiency, the Lagos State Government plans to deploy additional compressed natural gas (CNG) trucks to PSP fleets, reflecting LAWMA’s commitment to cleaner energy solutions.
Dr. Gbadegesin stressed the need for collective responsibility in achieving a cleaner and more sustainable Lagos. He called on residents to support LAWMA’s initiatives and adopt environmentally friendly waste management practices.
“Our mission is to ensure Lagos transitions to a modern waste management system that not only addresses current challenges but also creates opportunities for economic growth and sustainability,” he concluded.
