LAWMA Moves To Curb Indiscriminate Waste Disposal

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified its enforcement and clean-up operations across the state to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and maintain environmental sustainability.

The agency’s managing director and chief executive officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who spoke while giving updates on his agency’s activities, emphasised LAWMA’s unwavering commitment to keeping Lagos clean.
Gbadegesin noted that the monitoring and enforcement team had been mobilised to ensure compliance with the state’s waste management laws.

He said, “LAWMA remains resolute in stamping out illegal waste disposal and environmental violations. Our Environmental Monitoring and Enforcement Anti-Cart Pushers Squad has been actively dislodging illegal waste operators who contribute to the degradation of our environment.
We urge residents to avoid patronising them and instead work with registered PSP operators for proper waste disposal.”

Gbadegesin said the enforcement team recently carried out primary operations in areas like Ifako-Ijaiye, Dopemu, Agege, Ojodu Berger, and other parts of Lagos, apprehending cart pushers known for collecting waste and dumping it at unauthorised locations, stressing that such activities violated environmental laws and undermined the state government’s efforts at maintaining a clean and livable city.

He warned that ignorance of the law is not an excuse, and anyone caught engaging in cart pushing would face the full wrath of the law.

The LAWMA boss further noted that the Authority had also commenced the evacuation of waste from illegal dumpsites along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, particularly behind Circle Mall, adding that the operation, simultaneously taking place at Mile 2 Badagry expressway, would continue in the coming weeks, in line with the agency’s ongoing efforts to clear accumulated waste, remove silt along the median and verges and prevent indiscriminate disposal along highways.

In a separate exercise, LAWMA has intensified efforts to clean up Lagos waterways, ensuring that rivers and water bodies remain free of waste and blockages. The initiative aims to reduce environmental pollution and promote cleaner water channels across the state.

“A cleaner Lagos is achievable when everyone plays their part. We urge residents to work with assigned PSP operators, report waste-related infractions, and adopt responsible waste disposal habits. Together, we can create a cleaner and healthier city for all,” he added.