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Tag: Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin

  • LAWMA Intensifies Crackdown on Indiscriminate Dumping

    LAWMA Intensifies Crackdown on Indiscriminate Dumping

    … Allays fears of epidemic outbreak

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has reinforced its enforcement operations across the state, targeting indiscriminate dumping, black spots, and persistent environmental violations that threaten public health and urban resilience.

    Speaking on the Authority’s latest actions, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, acknowledged the waste management challenges experienced in some areas in the state, noting that the Authority remained firmly committed to ending all forms of reckless disposal habits.

    He said, “The state’s coastal geography made enforcement very important, to prevent environmental hazards. A bag of refuse tossed into a drain anywhere in the metropolis does not disappear. It blocks culverts, worsens flooding, exposes households to contaminated water, and sends plastics and debris into our canals and lagoon systems. Illegal dumping has consequences far beyond the act itself.”

    He revealed that LAWMA has moved from episodic crackdowns to a steady, intelligence-driven enforcement model that links surveillance, community reporting, and swift prosecution.

    According to him, the Authority has intensified far-reaching enforcement campaigns across the state to stamp out all forms of indiscriminate waste dumping, arresting and prosecuting recalcitrant offenders, to serve as a deterrent to others.

    “Enforcement is central to our mission. Lagos cannot achieve a clean, flood-resilient city without consequences for illegal dumping and non-compliance. We are acting decisively, to ensure there’s no room for environmental infractions,” he said.

    He assured that the Authority would continue to work with PSP operators, providing backup services, especially in areas that needed urgent attention. He added that the state government is poised to assist PSPs in recapitalising, ensuring optimal performance.

    In a related development, LAWMA has announced the successful evacuation and enforcement operation recently carried out at a notorious black spot in Somolu Local Council Development Area.

    The LAWMA boss explained that the Authority has fully cleared the accumulated waste at the location, which had long served as a dumping hotspot, while partnering with Somolu LCDA, Bariga LCDA, and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) to secure the site and launch night and early-morning patrols.

    He said, “Several offenders have already been apprehended, with commercial tricycle operators featuring prominently among those caught dumping illegally. This shows that advocacy and enforcement must be continuous and backed by real-time surveillance.

    The Chairmen of Somolu LCDA and Bariga LCDA have pledged strong collaboration with LAWMA, assuring sustained advocacy and strict enforcement in line with the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources’ call for LGAs and LCDAs to take full ownership of waste management in their jurisdictions.

    To deepen public education, he said LAWMA has intensified its radio programmes and social media engagements, sensitising residents on recycling, proper waste disposal, the role of PSP operators, and penalties for environmental infractions.

    The LAWMA helmsman stressed that environmental protection could not be left entirely to the government, urging residents to support the Authority’s efforts by acquiring covered waste bins for their premises, avoiding indiscriminate waste dumping and cart pushers, while patronising assigned PSP operators.

    He added that the Authority would continue to collaborate with traditional rulers, market leaders, resident associations, and key stakeholders in the drive to curb environmental abuse, appealing to residents to report any suspicious waste movement.

    “While enforcement is our duty, voluntary compliance is what will secure the future. Lagosians must embrace responsible waste disposal, because a polluted environment eventually harms everyone. Cleanliness is a shared responsibility,” he said.

  • LASG Organises One-Day Stakeholders’ Forum on Construction, Demolition, Disaster Waste


    LASG Organises One-Day Stakeholders’ Forum on Construction, Demolition, Disaster Waste

    The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening sustainable waste management practices with the organisation of a one-day stakeholders’ forum on construction, demolition and disaster waste (CDDW) management.

    The event, held in Ikoyi, Lagos, was organised by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), in conjunction with Wastecare Solutions Ltd, bringing together key players in the construction and environment sectors, to discuss strategies for managing the rising volume of waste generated from building activities and disaster incidents.

    Theme of the event is “Building Responsibly and Driving Efficiency: Strengthening Stakeholder Collaboration in Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management in Lagos State”

    Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, represented by Mr. Adeoye Babajide, said the forum was designed to harness ideas that would enhance environmental sustainability, safety, and livability.

    Wahab noted that the global shift towards circular economy principles required deliberate efforts to minimise waste, maximise resource utilisation, and ensure recycling and reuse, stressing that Lagos, with its growing population and human activities, could not afford to be submerged in unmanaged waste.

    He said, “The theme is critical, timely and a calculated step aimed at harnessing approaches to construction and demolition waste management, focusing on sustainability and environmental safety”.

    He explained that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) had moved beyond conventional collection and disposal methods by promoting responsible building practices that emphasised reduction, reuse, and recycling.

    The Commissioner charged stakeholders in the construction sector to adhere strictly to government regulations on waste handling, recycling, and disposal, warning that non-compliance could result in penalties, including the sealing of project sites.

    “The essence of compliance is to ensure environmental responsibility, conserve resources and avoid sanctions. Our aim is not punishment, but safeguarding the environment and protecting public health,” Wahab said.

    Earlier in his welcome, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by the Executive Director, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, gave an overview of the programme and what informed the decision to organise it, stressing that partnership was key in achieving the goal of establishing sustainable environment.

    According to him, “Lagos thrives on collaboration and partnerships. This has been the foundation of our progress, and even the THEMES+ Agenda, which guides the current administration, is built entirely on the principle of working together. Through partnerships and coordinated efforts, we can achieve sustainable development and better outcomes for our communities”.

    The guest speaker, Dr. Tijani Ajibola, in his presentation titled, “Bridging the Gap between Policy and Practice: Strengthening the Compliance in Construction and Demolition Waste Management”, walked participants through the processes involved in construction, demolition, and disaster waste management, stressing that the world is a shared and valuable space, which must must be preserved responsibly, for the benefit of future generations.

    He highlighted that CDDW contributed significantly to air pollution, stressing that responsible management at every stage, from planning and construction to disposal and recycling, was crucial to minimising environmental impact and ensuring a safe, sustainable, and livable environment for all.

    Goodwill messages were delivered by the Oba of Iru Land, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, represented by Chief Adebayo, Alawe of Oniru Kingdom; Architect Ekaete Bassey, Resident Consultant, Architect Nigeria; Ogunba Abiola, representative of Lagos State Wastewater Management; Sheriff Daramola, President, International Facility Management Association, Nigeria Chapter, and representatives of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, as well as the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority.

    The event also featured technical sessions where panelists exchanged ideas and actionable strategies to strengthen waste management practices in the state.

  • Id el Kabir: LAWMA Urges Residents to Embrace Proper Waste Management

    Id el Kabir: LAWMA Urges Residents to Embrace Proper Waste Management

    …commemorates World Environment Day 2025

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has urged residents to embrace proper waste management, to ensure a clean and healthy environment during and after this year’s Id-el-Kabir celebration.

    In a statement released on Wednesday, the Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, assured residents that extensive provisions have been made to handle the anticipated increase in waste generation throughout the Sallah period, noting that waste management services would be provided across all designated routes, ensuring seamless evacuation of refuse in every part of the city.

    He said, “Eid-el-Kabir is a season of joy, gratitude, and communal harmony. While residents celebrate with their families and loved ones, we must all remain mindful of our civic duties, especially in relation to the environment. Proper handling and disposal of animal waste, food remnants, and packaging materials are non-negotiable if we are to maintain the standards of hygiene we all desire.”

    He said that LAWMA officials and enforcement teams, would be monitoring field operations and waste disposal activities around the metropolis, to ensure compliance with best practices, during and after the festivities.

    Gbadegesin appealed to residents to avoid indiscriminate dumping of refuse on road medians, drainage channels, and open spaces, stressing that such actions compromised public health and would attract penalties, urging butchers and livestock dealers to make use of approved slaughter facilities across the state, to minimise contamination and maintain sanitary standards in line with public health regulations.

    While wishing the Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyful celebration,  Gbadegesin reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to maintaining environmental cleanliness, not just during festive periods but throughout the year, appealing to Lagosians to support the Authority’s efforts by bagging their waste properly, containerising and ensuring timely evacuation through assigned PSP operators.

    In a related development, LAWMA has joined its counterparts across the globe to commemorate 2025 World Environment Day, marked every 5th June. This year’s theme, “Putting an End to Plastic Pollution”, places emphasis on the urgent need to save the environment from the dangers of plastic pollution.

    The LAWMA boss noted that the theme resonated deeply with the agency’s ongoing mission to transform Lagos into a cleaner and healthier city, by tackling the menace of plastic pollution, adding that environmental restoration was not a one-time event but a sustained process that began with individual choices and community-based action.

    He stated further that LAWMA had commenced a series of advocacy and clean-up initiatives in collaboration with environment stakeholders, schools, and community-based organisations, aimed at encouraging environmental ownership at the grassroots level, calling on market associations, religious leaders, and neighborhood groups, to help educate their members on how small daily actions, such as clearing gutters, separating recyclables, or discouraging street dumping, could lead to meaningful and positive long-term ecological impact.

    He concluded by stressing that World Environment Day 2025 offered an opportunity for every Lagos resident to recommit to building a healthier and more sustainable future, urging all stakeholders to reflect on the consequences of environmental neglect and join hands with government agencies to restore and protect the ecosystem that sustains lives and livelihoods in the state.

  • IFMA Nigeria celebrates World FM Day, champions sustainability, tech-driven resilience

    IFMA Nigeria celebrates World FM Day, champions sustainability, tech-driven resilience

    The Nigerian Chapter of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) on Wednesday joined over 96 countries worldwide to celebrate World Facility Management Day under the theme “Resilience in Action: Thriving in a World of Change.” The event, held in Lagos, spotlighted the evolving role of facility managers in a rapidly changing world and emphasized the need for sustainability and innovation in managing infrastructure and waste.

    In his opening remarks, IFMA Nigeria President, Engineer Sherif Daramola, hailed facility managers as the backbone of thriving organizations. He stated that the day was designed to recognize professionals who ensure the functionality, safety, and efficiency of built environments, often under intense pressure.

    According to him “Our teams have not just adapted, they have led with courage, agility, and unwavering commitment,” Daramola said. “Facility managers are the enablers of change. Their resilience ensures that disruption does not negate progress but drives transformation.”

    Highlighting the growing importance of technological adaptability, Daramola noted the rise of predictive maintenance, smart systems, and sustainability-driven procurement. “Technology disruptions are here. The question is: are we ready?” he asked, pointing to the need for continuous upskilling and engagement.

    Daramola also addressed government involvement, noting that states like Lagos, Oyo, Abuja, Kaduna, and Anambra are embracing structured facility management practices. He referenced the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo’s investments in facility management as a benchmark for infrastructure sustainability in public institutions.

    A major highlight of the event was the presentation by Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), who emphasized the pivotal role of facility managers in waste reduction and circular economy practices.

    “Fifty percent of Lagos’ waste is organic and can be converted into biogas or compost,” Gbadegesin said. “We’re launching a biodigester in one of our major fruit markets this June to convert waste into power, cooking gas, and charging points.”

    He called on facility managers to integrate waste separation and recycling practices into their buildings, insisting that LAWMA is actively pursuing a partnership model with facility managers to reduce the burden on dump sites like Olusosun.

    “We need separate bins in every facility, plastic, metal, glass. We must phase out irresponsible dumping. We currently have cases in court and there are penalties including jail terms,” he warned.

    Looking ahead, IFMA Nigeria announced that it will host the 2nd Annual IFMA Africa Conference in Lagos from August 19–23, 2025. Themed “Enabling Sustainable Facility Management Practices in Africa,” the conference will cover topics such as circular economy, AI in FM, sustainable technology, innovative solutions and public infrastructure management. According to past FMA Nigeria President Segun Adebayo, the event will feature paper presentations, workshops, panel sessions, exhibitions and tours

    As the industry confronts climate, technology, and economic shifts, this year’s World FM Day in Nigeria emphasized the critical role facility managers play not only in keeping buildings operational, but in driving sustainability, innovation, and contributing to national economic growth.

  • Waste is Money, Don’t Throw it Away – LAWMA boss

    Waste is Money, Don’t Throw it Away – LAWMA boss

    …urges Lagosian to embrace recycling and circular economy

    The Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has encouraged Lagos residents to stop discarding waste, but tap the vast economic value by embracing recycling and circular economy.

    He said this in his office, Ijora-Olopa, while interacting with a team of journalists, who sought his views on the future of waste management in the state.

    He pointed out that what people call waste is actually not waste, but money, and should not be thrown away, noting that many people were making a good living from collecting waste materials and selling to recycling companies at good rates.

    According to him, “Waste is inevitable; it’s a byproduct of human activity. But we cannot continue to simply dispose of it, we must move towards a circular economy where we reduce, reuse, and recycle. We envision a Lagos State where at least 90% of our waste generated is recycled”.

    He highlighted LAWMA’s long-running campaign for every household in the city, to have separate bins for general waste and for recyclables like paper, PET bottles, cans and textiles, which recyclers could collect and give money or something of value in return.

    “The private sector is actively involved in collecting waste from homes to dumpsites. We want them to also take part in the recycling business. It’s more sustainable when the government creates the framework as we are doing, and the private sector drives it,” he said.

    He also disclosed that upon full decommissioning of Olusosun and Solous landfills, Transfer Loading Stations (TLS), would be built, as the sites would be finally turned to Materials Recovery Facilities (MRF).

    “We plan to build transfer loading stations at Olusosun and Solous. The vision and plan is to reduce waste, manage waste sustainably, and extract maximum value from waste,” he stressed.

    The LAWMA boss noted that the agency’s partnerships went beyond large corporations to start-ups like GreenDeall, which planned to build a recycling plant at a closed dumpsite at Abule-Egba, to recycle a certain class of plastic, into oil for heavy industries.

    He said, “Later this year, we plan to launch a deal book that will break down all the opportunities in the waste management sector. We are also creating a base map of the locations. People will be able to go to the LAWMA website to select areas of waste management they are interested in”.

    Gbadegesin also highlighted LAWMA’s commitment to environmental education and youth involvement in waste management, through LAWMA Academy, where a dedicated team goes round schools on weekly basis to sensitize the pupils, in addition to a monthly internship programme, where undergraduates and graduates come to learn modern waste management.

    “We are also looking to bring together alumni, because what we preach is for them to return to their communities as LAWMA ambassadors. We have also expanded our waste management coverage to primary schools. Mr. Governor kindly gave us 2,000 recycling bins, which had been distributed to schools, and we introduced a recycling company to collect the plastic waste from those schools”, he stressed.

    He further disclosed that LAWMA recently received approval from the Ministry of Education to create two modern recycling hubs in schools located in Yaba. “We want to do modern recycling in those two schools, to become the location where students from the school and around the Mainland area can come and see. They will be the ones running it. In the hub, we will have bins for metal, paper, organic and all other fractions of waste. The belief is that if we continue this and we do it well, in the years to come, the children will have imbibed the attitude that waste is wealth.”

    The LAWMA helmsman identified human behaviour as the biggest challenge in waste management, hence his agency’s consistent effort at bringing the younger generation of residents to the forefront of unlocking values.

  • LAWMA Explores Solutions to Environmental Challenges at Lecture

    LAWMA Explores Solutions to Environmental Challenges at Lecture

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has explored the potential of biogas solutions to global environmental challenges like air pollution, climate change and water contamination among others.

    The event was a lunch and learn lecture with theme: “Catalyzing Innovation through Collaboration: Unleashing the Power of the Triple Helix of Government, Industry and Academia” held at its headquarters, Ijora-Olopa.

    Delivering the welcome address, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, described the Lunch and Learn Series as an informal but intellectually stimulating platform, designed to spark dialogue, encourage research, and enhance capacity within the agency.

    He said, “This is an informal session, which is why it is called the Lunch and Learn Series. Programmes like this are a tradition in academic environments where they have been proven to contribute to academic and personal development significantly. We are replicating that model here at LAWMA because what we do is not just based on logistics; LAWMA is a scientific organization with scientific officers and we recognize the importance of academia in addressing waste management challenges. Therefore, we must prioritize research and continuous learning to develop strategic solutions tailored to our region’s specific needs. Initiatives like this are the way forward,”

    In a keynote presentation, Prof. Mats Eklund, a globally recognized expert in sustainability and innovation, and scientific leader of the Biogas Research Center at Linköping University, Sweden, shared his insights on the potential of biogas solutions to address global challenges such as air pollution, climate change, water contamination, and soil health.

    He illustrated how several environmental challenges could be addressed through several research works that had proved effective in many areas.

    The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Environment, Mr. Tajudeen Omobolaji Gaji, expressed gratitude to Prof. Eklund for his valuable contribution to advancing innovation in waste management, stressing the ministry’s commitment to fostering collaboration between government, industry, and academia, to enhance knowledge sharing and impactful solutions.

    Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, Executive Director of Finance, shared LAWMA’s intention to leverage technological innovations to stay competitive with other developing countries, underscoring the many opportunities in waste management, with biogas research serving as a prime example.

    An engaging question-and-answer session followed, where Prof. Eklund further elaborated on the importance of cross-sector collaboration to drive sustainable waste management solutions. He said: “People need to see waste differently, not as dirt or hazards, but as opportunities. Over time, people’s perceptions can change, and they will begin to see the immense potential in waste.”

    The event was attended by many stakeholders, including Engineer Adebola Sabi, chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Environment Parastatal; Mr. Adedoyin Lasisi, Director and Deputy Director of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources; Akin Alabi, Managing Director of Zoomlion Nigeria; Abubakar Habeebah; top lecturers from the University of Lagos, researchers, and LAWMA management staff.

    This “Lunch & Learn” Series marks LAWMA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and leadership in operational excellence. It is the first in a series of knowledge-sharing initiatives designed to foster innovation and build strategic partnerships in the waste management sector.

  • LAWMA Partners UNIDO and FBRA to Tackle Menace of Plastic Waste

    LAWMA Partners UNIDO and FBRA to Tackle Menace of Plastic Waste

    …signs position paper to formalise collaboration

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), has partnered the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), to promote sustainable plastic waste management in Lagos State, through circular economy practices.

    The initiative tagged, UNIDO Project 210184: “Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices”, is funded by the Government of Japan, seeking to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for inclusive and sustainable industrial development, by addressing plastic pollution at source.

    As part of the project, four plastic waste collection facilities and thirty designated collection points will be established across the Lekki and Lagos Mainland municipalities, while LAWMA will provide the land and essential infrastructure, as UNIDO and FBRA will co-finance the development, and lead public awareness campaigns under the zero plastic waste initiative.

    Speaking at the event, LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, explained that the project required two land parcels each in Lekki and Lagos Mainland, which he said had been secured.

    He also disclosed that on the Lagos Mainland, LAWMA was exploring a collaborative model with a local school, to integrate an educational facility alongside the recycling centre, to foster environmental awareness and learning within the community.

    The National Programme Officer at the UNIDO Sub-Regional Office in Abuja, overseeing environmental projects and programs, Dr. Osuji Otu, emphasised the significant role of the partnership in driving positive change for the nation.

    He noted: “LAWMA, UNIDO and FBRA are united in their commitment to the nation’s environmental progress, and we have chosen Abuja and Lagos as key locations for the initiative. In Abuja, we have the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, AEPB; in Lagos, we are working with LAWMA and FBRA to pilot the project.”

    He further explained that the goal of the project was to lay the groundwork for a nationwide waste management strategy. “The aim is to implement a successful pilot that can be replicated across the country. The success of the initiative will serve as a benchmark for future efforts in Nigeria, which is why these two organisations must collaborate and ensure the project’s success. This will help attract additional funding and allow us to expand this model to other regions.”

    Otu also called for greater involvement of other sister agencies, urging them to embrace such initiatives. “Environmental sustainability, particularly in plastic waste management, is a global priority. I encourage other agencies to align with these programs and support both the Nigerian government and UNIDO in addressing this pressing issue,” he stressed.

    In his welcome address, the Executive Director of Finance at LAWMA, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, noted that the project was initiated in 2022 by UNIDO, involving LAWMA and FBRA, to strengthen the state’s recycling capacity and fostering partnerships for the state’s broader environmental goals.

    “This initiative aligns with LAWMA’s mission to promote efficient waste management and environmental sustainability in Lagos. We are optimistic that this project will contribute significantly to environmental sustainability”, he noted.

    The collaboration is anchored by a cooperation committee made up of representatives of UNIDO, LAWMA, and FBRA, tasked with monitoring progress, selecting private sector recycling companies, to operate the facilities under lease agreements, and resolving challenges that may arise during implementation.

    The facilities will be managed by private sector operators selected through a transparent process based on predefined criteria.

    FBRA, a key partner in the initiative, is a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), responsible for implementing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies in Nigeria’s food and beverage sector, previously voluntary, but has now become a mandatory regulatory requirement. FBRA’s role in the project also includes leading community awareness campaigns in Lekki and Lagos Mainland.

    With growing concerns over plastic pollution and its impact on human health and the environment, this collaboration represents a significant step toward strengthening a circular economy in Lagos and Abuja to reduce waste, promote recycling, and support green job creation.

    The project is expected to run until September 2026, and the partnership between LAWMA and FBRA will continue beyond this official timeline, to ensure long-term impact and sustainability.

    In attendance were the General Manager of the Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Dr. Babatunde Ajayi; Vice Chairman of FBRA, Mr. Elhusseini Wassim; Executive Director of FBRA, Agharese Onaghise; National Programme Coordinator of UNIDO, Oluyomi Banjo; and LAWMA management staff, among others.

  • Lafarge Africa Signs Memorandum of Understanding with LASG on Solid Waste Management

    Lafarge Africa Signs Memorandum of Understanding with LASG on Solid Waste Management

    Lafarge Africa, a leading innovative and sustainable building solutions company and manufacturers of a range of cement brands, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding on solid waste management with the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources through the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) in line with its ambitious zero waste to landfill objective.

    Speaking during the signing ceremony held at the Ministry of Environment’s Office, Alausa Secretariat on Monday, February 17, 2025, the Chief Executive Officer, Lafarge Africa Plc, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, described the partnership with the Lagos state government as a unique opportunity to take a significant step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

    Alade-Akinyemi explained that with the signing of the MOU, Lafarge Africa intends to collect non-recyclable and combustible waste from companies and Lagos State dumpsites and divert it to the Ewekoro Plant as an alternative fuel for production. He added that managing waste effectively is critical to environmental stewardship, community well-being, and long-term economic development.

    “By redirecting non-recyclable and combustible waste from companies and dumpsites across Lagos to our Ewekoro Plant, we are taking a significant step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. All of these will be powered by Geocycle, our waste management arm,” he said. 

    He noted that the partnership will strengthen Lafarge Africa’s leadership in sustainable construction and climate action and allow both parties to make meaningful contributions to sustainable waste management in Nigeria. 

    “We have successfully deployed waste-to-energy solutions globally, and today, we are extending that expertise to Lagos. The waste sourced through this partnership will be utilised as an alternative fuel in our cement kilns, replacing fossil fuels, reducing our carbon footprint, and contributing to Nigeria’s decarbonisation journey,” said Alade-Akinyemi

    “Beyond the immediate advantages to Lagos state and Lafarge Africa, the broader environmental impact of this initiative is profound. By mitigating methane emissions from decomposing waste and reducing CO₂ emissions from traditional cement production, we take a crucial step in combating climate change,” he added.

    In his remarks during the signing ceremony, Lagos State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources Tokunbo Wahab reaffirmed the state Government’s commitment to sustainable waste management and environmental preservation. He stated that the partnership between Lagos State and Lafarge Africa represents a significant step in the state’s journey towards achieving a cleaner and more sustainable city.

    “As a government, we recognise that waste management is a critical component of our environmental policies, and we remain committed to fostering innovative collaborations that will help us reduce waste, lower carbon emissions, and create a circular economy. This MoU reflects our shared vision for a Lagos where waste is effectively managed and utilised as a resource for economic growth and environmental sustainability”, he said.

    Wahab disclosed that the state is aiming toward a zero-carbon footprint, stating that the MOU signing with Lafarge today ticks the box for that ambitious target. “Lagos generates between 13,000 and 15,000 tons of waste a day. That is huge. Well, we have stopped complaining. We have said to ourselves, we must address it frontally as a state. Waste management is a culture and it’s one that we must imbibe and build over time,” he added.

    Also, the Managing Director of Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, described the initiative as a milestone in the state’s journey toward a zero-waste future. “This partnership marks a historic step in Lagos State’s efforts to achieve sustainable waste management. We have worked closely with Lafarge Africa through extensive consultations, pilot studies, and site visits to ensure this initiative is viable and impactful. Waste management is not just about disposal; it is about innovation and creating value. With this collaboration, we are setting a new precedent in how municipal solid waste is processed and repurposed, reinforcing our vision of a circular economy where waste contributes to sustainable development rather than environmental degradation.”

  • LAWMA Intensifies Enforcement, Waste Clean-up Across Lagos

    LAWMA Intensifies Enforcement, Waste Clean-up Across Lagos

    … Agency Urges Residents to Stop Patronising Cart Pushers

    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, emphasised LAWMA’s unwavering commitment to keeping Lagos clean, noting that the monitoring and enforcement team had been mobilised to ensure compliance with waste management laws of the state.

    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 desist from patronising them and instead work with registered PSP operators for proper waste disposal.”

    Gbadegesin said the enforcement team recently carried out major 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 be made to 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 is aimed at reducing environmental pollution and promoting cleaner water channels across the state.

    Gbadegesin urged Lagosians to support LAWMA’s initiatives in 2025, by properly disposing of their waste, reporting service gaps, and calling the agency’s helplines for backup waste collection services.

    “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.

  • Commissioner Unveils Waste Management Plans at Event

    Commissioner Unveils Waste Management Plans at Event

    …Govt to build waste-to-energy plants at Olusosun, Epe and Badagry

    The Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, has unveiled plans to radically improve the waste management system in the state, at a Waste to Energy Summit themed, “Driving Environmental Sustainability”.

    The event, organised by Rack Centre in partnership with the NYSC Community Development Service (CDS), at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, brought together key stakeholders to discuss sustainable solutions to waste management challenges.

    In his keynote address, Wahab, who was represented by the Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasised the need for proper dumpsite management to mitigate environmental hazards.

    “When Olusosun was established, it was actually on the outskirts, but development caught up with it. There’s a lot of pressure on solid waste management, which is why we are working on reducing the amount of waste dumped on the Olusosun landfill through recycling initiatives,” he explained.

    He further outlined LAWMA’s strategic plans to transform waste management in the state, by focusing more on recycling, introducing various initiatives such as development of compost and biogas plants, to reduce the volume of waste going to landfills.

    “We are working on developing composting and biogas plants on the site. The future state is that we are going to decommission the Olusosun landfill; we are already in the process. Decommissioning the dumpsite is necessary to address long-term environmental and health impacts. In doing this, we are going to comply with international best practices”, he stressed.

    Dr. Gbadegesin also announced plans to establish waste-to-energy plants across the state, “Waste-to-energy plants will be established at the Epe dumpsite. The plan is to have three waste-to-energy plants in the state at Badagry, Epe, and Olusosun. We are exploring other alternatives to be used as landfills since we are working on shutting down the Olusosun landfill.”

    Dolapo Olaoluwa, the convener of the summit and a serving corps member, said he envisioned a gathering of key stakeholders to discuss solutions to the challenges posed by the Olusosun dumpsite and other waste management issues, as a way of contributing meaningfully to the community where he was serving.

    Mr. Adetayo Odusole, Head, Sustainability Coordination, Rack Centre, expressed their enthusiasm for sponsoring the event, noting that Rack Centre was pleased to support the initiative as it aligned with their goals of achieving a sustainable environment in the state, emphasising that achieving this required a collective effort.

    Other speakers at the summit included: Ezekiel Egboye, Founding Executive and Chief Operating Officer, Rack Centre; Jide Onakoya, Chief Operating Officer, Elektron; Professor Emmanuel O. Ogolo, Professor of Atmospheric Physics (represented); Dr. Victor Abimbola Onifade,  senior lecturer of Urban and Regional Planning; Olaide Ayodele-Taiwo, Assistant Chief Scientific Officer at the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA); and Yetunde Baderinwa, NYSC State Coordinator, Lagos State.

    High point of the event was a panel discussion, where the stakeholders and experts discussed sustainable solutions to waste management challenges in the state.

  • Cholera Outbreak: LAWMA Boss Tasks Residents on Personal, Domestic Hygiene

    Cholera Outbreak: LAWMA Boss Tasks Residents on Personal, Domestic Hygiene

    The Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has called on residents to observe the best personal and domestic hygiene, as well as proper waste management practices, to curb the spread of rampaging cholera.

    He gave the advice in his office, Ijora Olopa, against the recent outbreak of the disease, which has claimed some lives, leaving many hospitalised.

    Cholera, a severe diarrheal illness caused by infection with the bacterium vibrio cholerae, spreads primarily through contaminated water and food, thriving rapidly in unsanitary conditions. 

    He said, “The outbreak of cholera in the state is a serious public health concern. It is imperative that every resident takes proactive measures to prevent further spread of the disease. Ensuring proper personal and domestic hygiene, including efficient waste management, will go a long way in curbing the spread of the fatal disease”.

    The LAWMA boss suggested several precautionary measures including: proper waste disposal; ensuring safe drinking water; frequent hand-washing with soap; food safety practices and use of proper sanitation facilities among others.

    He admonished residents to shun indiscriminate refuse dumping and to imbibe the practice of bagging and disposing of their waste using covered bins, to prevent the spread of diseases by vectors, and to ensure seamless evacuation by assigned PSP operators.

    Gbadegesin said the Authority would continue to intensify efforts to make sure that waste generated across the state was promptly and efficiently managed, with service providers working around the clock to clean up black spots. 

    He further appealed to residents to always wash their hands when they come in contact with waste, either while bagging or putting in covered bins, urging them to align with the state government’s environmental and health safety policies, by avoiding reckless waste dumping in drains, road medians, among other negative environmental practices. 

    “We are fully committed to the health and safety of every Lagosian. Our teams are on the ground, ensuring that waste is properly collected and disposed of to minimise health risks. However, we need the cooperation of all residents to maintain a clean and safe environment,” he stressed.

    It would be recalled that the agency had, over the years, championed the campaign on the importance of waste bagging and proper containerisation through various programmes and initiatives.

  • Children’s Day: LAWMA Boss Tasks Parents on Recycling Education for Kids

    Children’s Day: LAWMA Boss Tasks Parents on Recycling Education for Kids

    As the world commemorates Children’s Day, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), has tasked parents with early teaching of waste sorting and recycling to their children and wards to build a sustainable environment for the future.


    He said this at the agency’s headquarters, Ijora-Olopa, as LAWMA celebrated with children. The event featured a series of educational activities and games designed to engage children and raise awareness on environmental sustainability.


    Gbadegesin highlighted the significance of instilling proper waste management habits in the younger generation, stressing that parents had an important role to play in educating their children about recycling and waste sorting, noting that early education on these topics was essential for fostering environmentally responsible citizens.


    He said, “Teaching our children about recycling and proper waste management is required for the future of our environment. As parents, it is our responsibility to ensure that they understand the impact of their actions on the planet. By incorporating these lessons into their daily lives, we can nurture a generation that is conscious of their environmental footprint and committed to sustainable practices.”


    The LAWMA boss stated that the Authority’s commitment to environmental education extended beyond Children’s Day. The agency had been actively involved in numerous initiatives aimed at promoting waste management education in schools and communities across Lagos State, including school outreach programs and community clean-up campaigns.


    “As an organisation, LAWMA is dedicated to creating a cleaner and healthier Lagos. Our efforts in promoting waste management education are part of our broader mission to foster a culture of environmental responsibility. We believe that by educating our children, we are laying the foundation for a greener future”, he noted.


    In her goodwill message, the Director of the Environmental Education Unit, Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Mrs Monsurat Banire, represented by Mrs Olufunke Olaleye, commended the Authority for investing in children, noting that children were the greatest investment.


    She said: “When we involve children in anything we do, we are assured of a better and sustainable future.  The Ministry of Environment knows the value of environmental education, and that is why we have the unit to raise you all as environmental ambassadors who will preserve our planet. I celebrate you all and I wish you a wonderful celebration “.


    Also speaking, the head of LAWMA Academy Training and Development, Mrs. Bola Adewumi, noted that the Authority was committed to raising children to become ambassadors of sustainable environmental practices, urging the children to maintain a positive attitude toward the environment, to make it people-friendly.


    Other LAWMA Management staff who gave their goodwill messages were: Director, Public Affairs, Mrs. Kadiri Folashade;  Deputy Director, Special Duties, Mr. Oluwakemi Sulaimon; Director of Admin and HR, Ms. Ranti Dosunmu; Deputy Director, Commercial Services, Mrs. Abimbola Opayemi; Deputy Director Medical Services, Health and Safety, Dr. Modupe Okoh; Deputy Director , Waste Management Research, Policy and Development, Dr. Essien Nsuabia; Deputy Director, Circular Economy, Mrs. Jirinsola Okubanjo; Head Customer Care and Corporate Engagement Unit, Mrs. Aramide Olaniyan, among others

  • LAWMA, MAN Collaborate for Environmental Sustainability

    LAWMA, MAN Collaborate for Environmental Sustainability

    … Styrofoam ban in public interest

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority, (LAWMA) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), have met to discuss ways of implementing sustainable waste management strategies, following the recent ban on usage of styrofoam packs in the state.

    Addressing the stakeholders, managing director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reiterated the Authority’s commitment to the Lagos State Government’s T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, stressing that the state government had to ban styrofoam to protect the environment and safeguard public health.

    He said: “It is necessary to establish that lack of access to a good environment, lack of awareness about the dangers of some of the items we use to consume food causes a lot of damage to our health. It is high time we faced the reality and choose only what is right and healthy for the people. Here in LAWMA, we are open to collaborations as long as it is for the good of the people, we will continue to support the Lagos State Government’s effort at entrenching policies that promote environmental sustainability and public health”, he noted.

    “It is not right to place narrow business interest of a few individuals above the larger challenge of public interest. So styrofoam has to go”, he concluded.

    Earlier in his opening address, the immediate past chairman of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Engr. Frank Onyegbu, noted that the meeting was convened to be on the same page with the Lagos State government on matters of the environment, adding that a bold step was being taken by the association in providing alternatives, with the current implementation of the ban of  Styrofoam products.

    He said: “To ensure that we are not caught up with the current situation in future, we will not wait till the government announces further ban on other products we are manufacturing. To achieve this, we will take a cursory look at how our products affect the environment and make adjustments, where necessary.

    “Going forward, with the present leadership of LAWMA, we are optimistic of a quality partnership with the Authority. We will work together with them to ensure we achieve a cleaner and healthier Lagos”, Onyegbu added.

    The meeting had in attendance the management staff of LAWMA, representatives of plastic production companies in Lagos and members of MAN.

    In a related development, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab hosted representatives of the National Association of Supermarkets and Operators of Nigeria (NASON), where he noted that the ban on styrofoam packs should be viewed from the larger picture of public interest.

    He stated further that Abia State had also banned styrofoam packs, underscoring the inherent dangers it posed, adding that the decision to ban styrofoam and other single-use plastics, had been taken at the National Council on Environment in 2021, with a three-year window for commencement of enforcement in 2024.

    The Commissioner averred that at the expiration of the current three-week window given to distributors and sellers to mop the products in circulation, the state would commence enforcement of the ban, promising that it would be carried out in a civil but firm manner.

    He submitted that all other single-use plastics (SUPs) would be banned before the year ends, adding that there would be windows for deliberations with all stakeholders before a total phase-out.

    Wahab also urged manufacturers to be more innovative about coming up with substitutes to single-use plastics just as many countries including the massively populated India, have successfully done away with styrofoam, despite its reputation of being the country with the largest concentration of eating-out points.

    It will be recalled that the Lagos State government recently banned the use and production of styrofoam packs, due to its immense adverse effects on the environment.

  • No going back on Styrofoam- LASG

    No going back on Styrofoam- LASG

    The Lagos State Government on Thursday maintained that there is no going back on the total ban of the usage and distribution of Styrofoam in the State.

    The affirmation was made at a consultative meeting of the State with representatives of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria(MAN) and Restaurant and Food Services Proprietor Association of Nigeria(REFSPAN) at the Alausa Secretariat.

    The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, who spoke on behalf of the state said enough damage has been done already to the health of the people and the state of the environment. He said the only moratorium which the state is willing to offer all producers and distributors of Styrofoam is to delay the commencement of enforcement of the ban by three weeks.

    He said three weeks is enough time for the products already in the state to be exhausted if indeed, the stockists are committed.
    Wahab reminded everyone that the pronouncement on banning of Styrofoam was made over three years ago but that no one has tried to enforce the law till now.

    He said the number of lives that have been lost through the effect of the use of styrofoam, the destruction of the ecosystem and aquatic lives as well as the menace brought upon the environment cannot be quantified. 

    He added that the lives of the residents is far more important than the profit producers set to make for the continuous production of Styrofoam. 

    He explained that the rippling effect of Styrofoam on the health care system is enormous stressing that manufacturers’ appeal to put the ban on hold is like wanting people to take poison for a longer time in order to mitigate their commercial losses. 

    He maintained that the havoc and destruction caused to the public utility by this product during and after the rainy season is unimaginable, stressing that if the producers had been responsible enough to respect the law, the government will not have to wade into the matter.

    According to him, the Government is putting a human face to this Ban by giving a 3-week moratorium to producers and entrepreneurs in the hospitality business and must bear in mind that  Leadership and Governance involve making tough decisions. 
    He said producers have a responsibility to society, but no one has taken steps to be responsible by conducting an environmental impact assessment before the commencement of production for public use. 

    He said the conversation about other types of single-use plastics will continue until a workable solution is reached, leading to its ban.

    Speaking earlier, the Permanent  Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Gaji Omobolaji Tajudeen, noted that the decision to ban the product was reached following the menace caused by the use of Styrofoam in the environment saying the product is not recyclable, and  will remain the same after hundred of years.

    He added that Styrofoam is hazardous to wild and aquatic life and animals often mistake them for food. 

    Also, the Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the State Government can no longer continue to watch the Styrofoam pack clogging the drainage channels, bearing in mind that the particular plastic product is hazardous to human health. 
    “It will be irresponsible for the government to sit and fold its hands because the cost of clearing those packs from tertiary, secondary and primary drains is very expensive”, he added


    The representatives of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, Okpe Sunday and Restaurant and Food Services Proprietor Association of Nigeria(REFSPAN), Mr. Olaoye Kazeem, pleaded for leniency and for time to allow Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and RESPAN to use existing stock before enforcement commences. 

  • LAWMA Fabricates Waste Bins for Ekiti State

    LAWMA Fabricates Waste Bins for Ekiti State

    …extends partnership offer to other states at affordable rates


    The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has begun fabricating waste bins for Ekiti State, in a partnership to tackle a myriad of waste management and environmental challenges. 


    Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who disclosed this in his office on Tuesday, noted that LAWMA remained committed to ensuring proper waste management practices, within and outside the Lagos State, adding that Lagos was willing to support or partner other states in any area of waste management.


    He said, “I am happy to announce the partnership between LAWMA and Ekiti State Government, which will see us fabricate their waste bins at a reasonable cost. By fabricating waste bins in-house, we gain greater control over quality, production speed, and ultimately, cost-effectiveness. This allows us to not only ensure a steady supply of bins for Lagos, but also help us to extend our support to other states like Ekiti, which is currently a prime beneficiary of this initiative. LAWMA has assisted some states before now and we are willing to do more”.


    Gbadegesin stated that the partnership with Ekiti State showed LAWMA’s proactive approach to environmental issues, adding that the Ekiti project would serve as a pilot program, paving the way for similar partnerships with other states. 


    “We believe that effective waste management is not just a Lagos issue, but a national concern. LAWMA’s door is open to any state seeking our assistance. We are offering our expertise to provide technical support, training, and even manpower, to help other states develop and implement efficient waste management systems”, he said.


    The LAWMA boss noted that the Authority’s Engineering Department, known for its ingenuity and resourcefulness, had developed a robust and efficient waste bin fabrication process, adding that the department utilised locally sourced materials to produce durable bins, for diverse waste management needs.


    “LAWMA’s in-house bin fabrication initiative offers several advantages beyond cost-effectiveness and quality control. It fosters skill development and job creation within the agency, promotes local content utilisation, and reduces reliance on foreign imports. Hence, other states who are interested can get the bins at affordable rates”, he stated.