The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a final warning to property owners, agents, and private occupiers in the state to cease all illegal recycling and scavenging activities in unlicensed facilities.
The agency also advised against the indiscriminate sorting, dumping, storing, and trading of recyclable waste in both private facilities and public spaces, emphasizing that such practices contribute to environmental hazards and disrupt the aesthetic appeal of the city.
LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, highlighted these concerns while commenting on a public notice issued to stakeholders. He noted that illegal waste management activities encroach on property rights and threaten public health.
“LAWMA has observed a rising trend of indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, and trading of recyclables in unauthorized locations. These activities violate the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and will not be tolerated,” the notice read. “Any individual or entity engaging in illegal recycling or scavenging will face strict enforcement measures and penalties as prescribed by law.”
The agency cited Part III, Sections 85 & 86 of the law, which strictly prohibits the deposition of recyclable waste in undesignated locations. LAWMA pledged to enforce compliance by prosecuting violators and shutting down offending facilities.
“We cannot fold our hands and watch a few individuals derail ongoing efforts to make the environment cleaner and more livable for all residents,” Gbadegesin stated. “Property owners who permit unauthorized recycling or scavenging activities on their premises risk revocation of property rights and other legal consequences.”
He urged residents and stakeholders to use only licensed recycling facilities and registered waste collectors to ensure proper waste management in Lagos. Additionally, he encouraged citizens to report illegal activities through LAWMA’s official channels.
“We remain committed to achieving a cleaner and more sustainable Lagos, but we need the cooperation of all residents. We urge everyone to comply with the state’s waste management laws and contribute to a healthier environment,” Gbadegesin added.
In a related development, a joint enforcement team, comprising officials from LAWMA’s Monitoring and Compliance Department and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), has dislodged squatters and illegal recyclers at Ijora-Olopa underbridge as part of efforts to sanitize the area.
Gbadegesin confirmed that the enforcement exercise would continue across the state in line with LAWMA’s zero-tolerance policy for waste-related infractions. “There will be no hiding place for anyone contributing to environmental degradation and undermining the efforts of the Authority,” he warned.
For further inquiries or to report illegal recycling activities, residents are encouraged to contact LAWMA via its customer service lines: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.
