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Tag: LAWMA

  • Zenith Bank commemorates 2026 World Environment Day with Two-Phase Clean-Up Initiative in Lagos

    Zenith Bank commemorates 2026 World Environment Day with Two-Phase Clean-Up Initiative in Lagos

    In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible business practices, Zenith Bank Plc has commemorated the 2026 World Environment Day with a two-phase environmental clean-up initiative in Lagos State, held under the global theme “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future.”

    The first phase was a morning clean-up conducted by staff of the Bank on Wednesday, 3 June 2026, along Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. The exercise mobilised employees to clear waste, sensitise residents on proper disposal practices, and reinforce the Bank’s culture of community service and environmental stewardship.

    The second phase, on Thursday, 4 June 2026, featured a waterways clean-up at the Falomo Waterways, Ikoyi, Lagos, executed in collaboration with the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA). The joint effort focused on removing marine debris, promoting cleaner waterways, and supporting the State’s broader climate-resilience agenda.

    Speaking on the initiative, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, said: “At Zenith Bank, sustainability is integral to how we operate. Clearing our streets and our waterways is a practical reminder that protecting the environment is a shared responsibility – and one we are proud to take up alongside LAWMA and LASWA. Through these exercises, we are taking deliberate action to preserve our communities, support climate action, and inspire others to act. Our operations will continue to align with global environmental standards as we build a more sustainable future for Nigeria and Africa.”

    Zenith Bank remains committed to embedding Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles across its operations, investing in green initiatives, energy efficiency, and community-focused programmes. These efforts advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Sustainability remains an operational imperative across the Bank’s Nigerian base and its broader African, UK and European footprints.

  • 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.

  • E1 Lagos GP: Guinness, Singleton, Others Back Africa’s First E1 Series

    E1 Lagos GP: Guinness, Singleton, Others Back Africa’s First E1 Series

    Leading brands, Guinness and Singleton Whiskey, have thrown their weight behind the forthcoming E1 Lagos GP, Africa’s first-ever E1 Grand Prix. The historic event, which takes place between October 3 and October 5, will see the world’s fastest electric powerboats racing on Lagos waters.

    With the backing of headline sponsors Guinness and Singleton, the E1 Lagos GP promises to be more than a sporting spectacle. It is expected to deliver a significant economic impact, drive tourism, and showcase Lagos as a global hub for innovation and culture.
    The Lagos State Government estimates over US$100 million in revenue from the event. More than 250 international participants, including athletes, teams, and VIPs, are expected, along with 10,000 to 15,000 visitors during the race week. With international tourists expected to spend US$150–250 daily, the event could generate up to US$15 million in tourism revenue during peak days, not including additional income from sponsorships, media rights, and local vendor contracts.

    Hotels across Victoria Island, Lekki, Ikoyi, and Ikeja are already experiencing a spike in demand, signalling a positive ripple effect across Lagos’s hospitality, transport, food, and entertainment sectors.

    Beyond the numbers, the event is expected to create jobs and stimulate entrepreneurship in sectors ranging from logistics and marine services to fashion, nightlife, and cultural tourism. It also aligns with Lagos’s vision to build a sustainable blue economy by promoting electric propulsion and clean water sports.

    At the heart of this movement are Guinness and Singleton, two iconic brands set to deliver immersive lifestyle experiences throughout the race week. Their activations will blend Nigerian culture with world-class entertainment, ensuring the E1 Lagos GP is not just a race, but a celebration of taste, music, and creativity.

    “For us at Guinness, Lagos is more than a city; it’s the heartbeat of African creativity, energy, and resilience,” said Yinka Bakare, Marketing and Innovation Director at Guinness Nigeria. “Sponsoring the first E1 race in Africa is our way of showcasing Lagos’s global potential while creating unforgettable cultural experiences that puts Nigeria on the world stage.”

    Gbenga Omotoso, Lagos State Commissioner for Information & Strategy, described the E1 Grand Prix as a defining moment:
    “The forthcoming E1 Lagos GP is more than a sporting spectacle; it is another bold step in putting Lagos on the global map. It aligns seamlessly with our sustainability goals while showcasing the city’s capacity to host world-class events. With the unwavering support of agencies like LASWA, LAWMA, the Marine Police, the Nigerian Navy, and the Nigeria Police Force, we are confident of delivering a safe and successful experience. Governor Sanwo-Olu remains resolute in ensuring that this event becomes a lasting tourism asset and strengthens Lagos’ position as one of the world’s true destination cities.”

    As the electric boats race across the Lagos Lagoon, the message will be clear: Lagos is not just joining the ranks of global host cities like Monaco, Venice, and Jeddah; it is forging its own path as Africa’s aquatic capital.

  • 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 MD Promises to Clamp Down on Filthy Communities

    LAWMA MD Promises to Clamp Down on Filthy Communities

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has conducted a comprehensive clean-up exercise at Itedo Community, Lekki Local Council Development Area, in partnership with Lekki Peninsula Environment Community, Crusader Sterling Pensions and Itedo Community Development  Association, promising to clamp down on filthy communities and residents.


    The clean-up exercise is in continuation of LAWMA’s efforts to clear black spots across communities in the state.
    Commenting on the exercise, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, condemned the unhygienic habits of some residents, who indulge in reckless waste disposal in unauthorised locations, promising to wield the big stick  on such erring individuals and areas, adding that the agency would stop at nothing, to achieve a clean and sustainable Lagos environment.


    According to him, “Today, we hearken to the call of the people of Lekki Peninsula Estate residents, who deemed it fit to call our attention to inappropriate waste disposal practices in this area. It is a deep clean-up of gutters, corridors and median. First, we will address the issue of illegal occupants who operate businesses here; they will be relocated into the community. Nobody will invest in a filthy environment. We are using this opportunity to appeal to the people of Lagos, to embrace the right attitude to the environment for a healthy life. LAWMA will never condone filthy habits at homes and public spaces and will stop at nothing to achieve a clean and sustainable environment.”


    Gbadegesin said further that the Authority was open to collaborations with stakeholders on environmental issues, to complement the Authority’s effort.


    “We are ready for partnership opportunities. Waste management in Lagos has always been driven by private sector participation. The state cannot do it alone. Residents and citizens own the state. We want you to support this initiative and stop littering the environment. This exercise will continue for three days and LAWMA will keep monitoring for enhanced result,’’ he stressed.
     The chairman of the Environment Committee, Lekki Peninsula Community, Mr.Yomi Idowu, noted that the committee became worried, about the heap of refuse deposited by recalcitrant residents and traders on a daily basis, necessitating the call for LAWMA’s intervention.


    He said “Our environment should be in a clean and hygienic condition always, if we want to be free from diseases and sickness. Indiscriminate waste dumping around this community is alarming and we felt this cannot continue. Most of the residents are in support of this clean up and they have been participating. We will ensure there is proper sensitization after this exercise”.


    On his part, the executive director of Crusader Sterling Pensions, Mr. Olufemi Dada, appreciated the Authority for the partnership, noting that the LAWMA helmsman has demonstrated the agency’s vision, through a proactive delivery, following proper planning and execution with his team. 


    While thanking the Authority for its prompt response, the chairman of Itedo Community Development Association, Mr. Rapheal Oroiale, promised that the community would employ community police, to man the area and ensure defaulters were apprehended and prosecuted.


    Also present at the clean-up exercise were LAWMA operations team, advocacy team, special duties, enforcement team, street sweepers, market waste team, marine waste team and celebrity artiste, Bankole Wellington, among others.

  • LAWMA Academy Organises Summer School for Pupils

    LAWMA Academy Organises Summer School for Pupils

    LAWMA Academy, the educational arm of Lagos Waste Management Authority, has organised a four-week summer school, for children aged 8 to 12, with the aim of teaching the younger generation the fundamentals of effective waste management. The four-week programme began on 31st July 31, 2023, at the Authority’s headquarters, Ijora-Olopa.

    Commenting on the program, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, noted that the summer school was organised to educate the younger generation, on the need to imbibe the culture of proper waste management, to teach arts and crafts, upcycling, as well as expose them to indoor and outdoor sports, field trips, among other activities.

    He said, “The Summer School programme is designed to educate children from the tender age on the concept of waste management and environmental sanitation, raising ambassadors for a cleaner and healthier environment with seasoned facilitators in a conducive learning environment. This will serve to train youngsters as conscientious environmental activists while also providing other enjoyable learning opportunities.”

    Dr. Gbadegesin advised parents and guardians to always take advantage of the extended school holiday to enroll their children and wards in the summer school, adding that those who could not participate physically could join online.

    The Academy’s team lead, Mrs. Elizabeth Ademola, noted that it was the third edition of the programme, adding that the summer school was designed to simplify the concept of waste and environmental management for children, to ensure that each child had sufficient and holistic knowledge of environmental sustainability practices.

    Since inception, hundreds of pupils in the state have benefited from the LAWMA Academy’s Summer School, acquiring essential waste management and environmental knowledge in the process.

  • LAWMA Calls for Proper Waste Management at Id el Kabir

    LAWMA Calls for Proper Waste Management at Id el Kabir

    In celebrating this year’s Id el Kabir festivities, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has admonished residents to bag and containerise waste generated appropriately, for a clean environment.

    In a statement, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, Executive Director, Finance of LAWMA, assured the public that comprehensive measures had been put in place to ensure a clean and hygienic environment throughout the celebration, adding that PSP operators had been assigned to work tirelessly to clean up the city, maintaining a round-the-clock schedule.

    He urged residents to shun all forms of indiscriminate waste dumping on road medians, canals, uncompleted buildings, and other unauthorised locations, assuring that LAWMA would intensify efforts at ensuring that the festivities were observed in a clean and healthy environment.

    Adebiyi said, “LAWMA is determined to combat improper waste disposal practices that contribute to environmental degradation within the metropolis, especially during the forthcoming Id el Kabir celebration.

    PSP operators have been mandated to provide efficient services, while LAWMA will provide backup services in areas where noticeable service gaps exist. In addition to that, district and operational heads have been on 24/7 operational duties, aimed at supporting the operation of service providers across the state”.

    He said the Authority would publish the names and phone numbers of management team members on national dailies, who had been assigned to monitor the environment during the festive period, urging residents to call the numbers or LAWMA toll-free lines, 07080601020 or 617, for waste management-related matters.

    The LAWMA Executive Director also called on motorists to ply the roads with caution, to safeguard the lives of sanitation workers who would be busy cleaning the roads and highways during the festive period.

    He extended warm felicitations to residents, while appealing to them to avoid actions that could negatively impact the environment during the celebrations.

  • LAWMA nominated for the GreenVETAfrica Project

    LAWMA nominated for the GreenVETAfrica Project

    Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has been nominated as one of the four African partners in the GreenVETAfrica project, according to a release from the authority.

    GreenVETAfrica project is an Erasmus+ project funded, by the European Commission, seeking to integrate unemployed youth and vulnerable groups into the labour markets in Nigeria and Ghana, by offering technical and entrepreneurial training on green waste management.

    Commenting on the nomination, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, noted that it was delightful that LAWMA was a part of the project, as it aligned with the Authority’s mandate of providing an efficient and sustainable waste management system in Lagos State.

    Odumboni said, “LAWMA is committed to promoting a sustainable environment and a circular development model that will transform linear economy into a circular one. This project aligns with the agency’s vision to promote sustainable development and create job opportunities for the youth in Lagos, Nigeria. As a responsible waste management authority, LAWMA believes that waste is a resource and can be transformed into a valuable asset. The GreenVETAfrica project will equip young Nigerians with the skills to manage waste sustainably, promote a circular economy, and reduce the negative impact of waste on the environment’, he said.

    He noted further that, as one of the beneficiaries of the GreenVETAfrica project, LAWMA would strengthen its training capacities to offer a green waste management vocational training programme to young Nigerians, adding that, through innovative digital tools, the programme would equip young Nigerians with the necessary skills to reduce waste and pollution, making better use of waste generated, and guaranteeing environmental standards.

    “The GreenVETAfrica project will also help to close the existing skills gap and shortage of professional figures, capable of supporting a twin (green and digital) sustainable transition. It will design and pilot an innovative VET programme, that will cater for the demands of the market, while helping to mitigate the brain drain from the two African countries, and reduce the risk of illegal and unsafe migration of youth”, he stressed.

    He stated that LAWMA would work closely with the partners, to ensure that the project objectives were achieved, adding that the project would foster official accreditation of the GVA VET programme, by both Nigeria and Ghana authorities, to promote the learners’ employability, to increase local employment opportunities.

    Odumboni remarked that the nomination marked a watershed in the agency’s efforts at establishing the culture of environmental sustainability in Lagos State, especially through its educational arm, LAWMA Academy, as a veritable tool to effectively impart knowledge of proper waste management.

  • LAWMA Celebrates Female Staff on International Women’s Day

    LAWMA Celebrates Female Staff on International Women’s Day

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), with Godrej, May & Baker, has marked the International Women’s Day by celebrating the female staff, as the real faces of waste management in the state’

    The event, which was held at LAWMA’s headquarters, Ijora-Olopa, Lagos, featured speeches, presentations, and recognition of female staff members who have contributed immensely to the agency’s success.

    In his opening address, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, showered praise on LAWMA sanitation workers (sweepers), whom he described as worthy heroines.

    He highlighted the importance of women’s empowerment and the need to create an environment where women could thrive and contribute meaningfully to the development of our society, urging them to continue to work hard towards achieving the agency’s goals.

    He said: “As we celebrate International Women’s Day today, let us remember that women are an integral part of our society, and we must continue to support their growth and development. I am so proud of you and your contributions to the cleanliness of our city. You are the first to come out daily, you are the face of LAWMA.

    Mr. Odumboni also copiously commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s support for the agency, noting that: “We are fortunate to have a governor who is committed to real development of the state.

    In his address, the managing director of Godrej, Mr. Chitwan Singh, represented by Mr. Abel Idonije, copiously praised LAWMA’s efforts at keeping the city clean, which according to him has prevented sicknesses and outbreak of diseases.

    Also speaking, the representative of May & Baker, Mrs. Essien Omotola Opeyemi, urged women to always ensure their total wellness, to enable them to take care of their families.

    In her presentation on the theme: “Women in Technology”, Mrs. Bola Adeniran, Director Procurement, LAWMA, told the women to step up and close the gender gap on issues of technology and ICT, to widen employment space for the females, adding that women should never be relegated to the background in any sphere of life.

    Highlight of the event was the recognition and presentation of gifts and certificates to some outstanding LAWMA female staff.

    In attendance at the event were LAWMA’s executive director of finance, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi; the chief technical officer, Mr. Olorunwa Tijani; management staff of LAWMA, among others.

  • LAWMA Celebrates 2022 Christmas Carol/End of the Year Thanksgiving

    LAWMA Celebrates 2022 Christmas Carol/End of the Year Thanksgiving

    It was an atmosphere of joy and thanksgiving as the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) held its annual Christmas Carol/End of The Year Thanksgiving service to celebrate the faithfulness of God to the agency in the outgoing year.

    The event which took place at the Authority’s headquarters, Ijora Olopa, was witnessed by LAWMA’s management and staff, as well as friends and well-wishers. 

    In his welcome address, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, represented by the Executive Director, Finance, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, thanked God for preserving the workers of the Authority in the outgoing year, in spite of the various challenges faced. 

    Odumboni also appreciated the state government, for its immense support, which resulted in improved waste management operations, towards achieving a cleaner and livable Lagos. 

    He appreciated members of staff of the agency for their resilience and dedication to duty in the outgoing year, admonishing them to keep up the good work in 2023. 

    While wishing Lagosians a Merry Christmas and a happy new year, he urged residents to always support efforts of the Authority in making the state better for all. 

    Delivering a sermon on the theme of the event, “God’s Mercy Endureth Forever”, Pastor C. E. O. Oluwatomisin of the Christ Apostolic Church, said it was God’s mercy that preserved the Authority’s staff members in all their operations throughout the year 2022.

    The guest minister highlighted the importance of divine mercy in the life of an individual, and further led special prayers for Nigeria¸ Lagos State and LAWMA. 

    The first Bible reading of the day, taken from the book of Isaiah 9: 6 – 7, was done by the Chief Medical Director, LAWMA Clinic, Dr. Modupe Okoh; while the second Bible reading, from the book of Luke 1: 26 – 31, was done by Mr Sunday Osekita, Assistant General Manager, Internal Audit.

    The highpoint of the event was the rendition of hymns and special songs by the Emmanuel Chapel Choir, which led the congregation in high praise and worship as well as a special feature by the chapel’s children.

  • LAWMA Extends Advocacy Program to Schools

    LAWMA Extends Advocacy Program to Schools

    …visits six schools at Lagos Island

    Desirous to inculcate tenets of effective waste management into the younger generation, Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has embarked on a massive advocacy program among primary and secondary schools in the state.

    The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni said that the agency’s decision to commence the school advocacy program was informed by the need to sensitise children on ethics of proper waste management, thereby catching them young, for better society.

    He said, “Our main aim for embarking on massive school advocacy is to raise the next generation of citizens who understand the place and importance of effective waste management and environmental sustainability in society. We cannot afford to be nonchalant about this because the future is at stake”. 

    Odumboni noted that the Authority, working with other stakeholders, like the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), was on a mission to create environmental awareness in all primary and secondary schools, to change the narrative of waste and environmental management in Lagos State. 


    “One of the objectives of LAWMA Academy is to raise the next generation of Solid Waste Management scholars and entrepreneurs whilst providing students with a variety of individualised and creative learning experiences in waste management, through our School Advocacy Program (SAP) that delivers waste education and sensitisation to students in primary and secondary schools in Lagos State”, he stated.


    The LAWMA boss emphasised the need for parents and guardians to encourage their children and wards to embrace the culture of recycling, waste sorting at the point of generation, and containerisation, adding that habits formed in tender years would be difficult to be abandoned.


    He said the task of keeping Lagos clean remained a collective responsibility, where all stakeholders were expected to play their roles to establish a consistent clean environment.


    Meanwhile, in the ongoing school advocacy program, the Authority visited six schools at Lagos Island Local Government Area. The schools included Ebute Elefun Nursery/Primary School, Anglican Girls Seminary School, Christ Church Cathedral School, Tinubu Methodist School, St. Mary’s Convent School, and St. Mary Girls.

  • FBRA Partners with Lagos Recyclers, Informal Sector and LAWMA to commemorate the 3rd Year Anniversary of the Lagos Recycles Initiative

    FBRA Partners with Lagos Recyclers, Informal Sector and LAWMA to commemorate the 3rd Year Anniversary of the Lagos Recycles Initiative

    The Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), recently partnered with the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Recyclers Association (LAGRA) to celebrate the third anniversary of the Lagos Recycling Initiative.

    The Alliance, with current membership of 28 organizations, was established in 2018 as the industry-coalition Producer Responsibility Organisation (PRO) for enhancing the collection and recovery of post-consumer packaging material in the Food and Beverage sector.

    Within the last four years, the Alliance in partnership with stakeholders in the waste value chain in Lagos state has impacted over fifty communities to educate and create awareness on recycling, facilitated the training of 3,000 waste pickers and has supported the collection of over 25,000MT of recyclables for recovery to productive use through a partnership with over 12 packaging waste aggregators. FBRA has also partnered with several NGOs to educate children in schools on the need for responsible disposal including recycling and have provided 75 recycling collection giant bins in schools, public spaces, and communities. The focus is for Alliance member companies to contribute funds to support the waste management operations of the waste ecosystem through the implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in the packaging sector.

    Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary of the Alliance, Onaghise Agharese emphasised the importance of source segregation at point of generation within homes and organisations to enhance the quality of the recyclables harvested. She also emphasised the need for collaborative efforts of all relevant stakeholders to implement an effective waste management system whilst pledging the commitment of the Alliance member companies to support more projects.

    The MD of LAWMA, Ibrahim Odumboni made a call out to all Food and Beverage organisations to join the efforts of the Alliance and informed all that the Agency is set to implement the Adopt the Bin Initiative where all households are expected to use the blue recycling bins to sort their waste, call for pick-up through PAKAM app and a LAGRA member in their vicinity will pick up their recyclables for an incentive.

    Dr. Femi Idowu Adegoke, the Chairman, Lagos Recyclers Association (LAGRA) encouraged all to join the Zero waste campaign through continuous public education, attitudinal and behavioural change towards minimizing (reducing), reusing, recovering, repurposing (upcycling and downcycling) and recycling for an efficient and sustainable circular economy in Lagos. He also provided a commitment that its members under Lagos Recyclers Association LAGRA are available to offtake recyclables for all households who have segregated its waste and books for collection through the PAKAM app. PAKAM App is a technology application that can be downloaded from play store that connects households to collectors nearest to them to enable them trade in their separated waste for incentive or cash.

    FBRA hereby encourages residents of Lagos state to adopt waste separation from source and recycling thereby earning rewards and incentives from recycling through the PAKAM App for a cleaner Lagos and a better planet for us all.

  • LAWMA Boss Points Way Forward For Waste Management In Lagos

    LAWMA Boss Points Way Forward For Waste Management In Lagos

    The Managing Director/CEO of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, has said that the agency was working on the creation of Transfer Loading Stations (TLS), in all the local government areas of the state, for fast and smooth evacuation of waste around the metropolis. 

    He also said that innovative strategies had been put in place to rejig the operational capability of the agency, for maximum efficiency.

    The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, who said this at a media parley, at the Authority’s headquarters, noted that the event provided a platform for the agency to inform the public on efforts at tackling the daunting waste challenge in Lagos.

    He highlighted the various gains made in the area of establishing environmental sustainability and clearing backlogs of waste generated in the metropolis, adding that the Authority was working assiduously to resolve prevalent challenges, through on-going day and night operations.

    Odumboni noted that the Authority, through the support of the state government, had completed the rehabilitation of landfills in the state, to shorten the turnaround time, for refuse evacuation and disposal, by waste collection trucks across the state.

    “I can confirm to you that through the support of the state government, we have rehabilitated landfills in the state, to facilitate seamless waste evacuation and disposal. PSP trucks can now dump their wastes at the landfills without any hindrance. The impact of this development will be felt in the metropolis within five to seven days,” he said.

    The LAWMA boss said the Authority was working with PSP operators to resolve some of the issues affecting their operation, especially the price of diesel, which rose by over 100% within the current year, adding that most of their operational vehicles run on diesel.

    “One of the challenges we had was the rise in the cost of operation. We estimate by now that there are over 1,000 PSP trucks in Lagos and LAWMA has over 150 supporting trucks. Most of these trucks make use of diesel to operate, and the rise in the cost of diesel greatly affected the operations of PSPs in the state. Through the support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, we will be having additional subsidy for PSP operators in areas where we have such challenges”, he stated.

    He said the Authority would work with Community Development Associations (CDAs) and Community Development Committees (CDCs), as well as PSP operators, to review waste management charges in the state, in line with the present economic reality, adding that there would be wide consultation before the new tariff regime.

    “The current economic reality in the country has made it necessary for price increase in waste management charges. To this effect, we will be increasing waste bills by 50%. We will also work with CDAs/CDCs and the PSPs, to review the charges and ensure proper implementation of the new tariff”, he noted. 

    He appealed to residents to procure bins to containerize their waste, noting that owning a bin would go a long way in tackling the problem of indiscriminate waste disposal, adding that it is mandatory for all tenements in the state to have a container for storage of their waste.

    “Majority of households don’t have a bin, we continue to appeal to residents to procure waste bins to containerize their waste, for temporary storage, before evacuation by assigned PSP operators. It’s important for us all to have a bin of some sort. Let us teach our kids how better to behave. It’s mandatory for you as a household to have a bin. From the 1st of October, if you don’t have a bin, you can be prosecuted”, he stated.

    He reiterated the ban on cart pushing, adding that the surge in waste dumping on roads and other unauthorised locations, resulted from people’s patronage of cart pushers, who dump waste indiscriminately in the metropolis, adding that the agency would integrate willing cart pushers into the state’s waste management system.

    The LAWMA helmsman hinted of the imminent establishment of a “bottle-to-bottle” recycling centre, in partnership with a private company who would source their raw materials from the plastic waste generated across the metropolis, emphasising that Lagos would soon become the hub of recycling in West Africa.

    He further said that the agency planned to set up 30 recycling centres across the state, by the end of the year, to boost the Lagos recycling initiative, which apart from its economic benefits, would mitigate the challenge of plastic pollution. 

    The president of the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN), Mr. David Oriyomi, said the price of diesel negatively affected their operation but thanked the governor for the subsidy offered to PSP operators, stating the need for a review of service charges, in line with current economic reality.

  • LAWMA Warns Agains Attack on its Workers

    LAWMA Warns Agains Attack on its Workers

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has warned against unwarranted attacks on its workers, carrying out lawful duties of waste evacuation during the day or night time.

    The Managing Director/CEO, Ibrahim Odumboni, gave the warning against the background of a reported attack by suspected miscreants on a LAWMA team, on night duty around Lagos – Abeokuta Expressway. 

    He indicated that if there are such attacks again, it would be met with stiff official reaction, including prosecution, to deter such others.

    He said:” We are totally disappointed to hear about attacks on our workers, on official duty.  It is totally unacceptable and inhuman. LAWMA works round the clock to ensure our environment is healthier and safer for everyone to live in. Our workers do not deserve to be treated that way. Anyone caught in such act again will be made to face the full wrath of the law.”


    Odumboni urged the public to always cooperate with LAWMA workers, including the PSP operators, to keep the environment clean, for the good of everyone.

  • LAWMA Clears Waste Backlog

    LAWMA Clears Waste Backlog

    The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, is clearing the backlog of waste around the city, largely through massive night operations.

    The operations between the hours of 10pm and 4am, is personally coordinated by the Managing Director/CEO of the Authority, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, and have witnessed the clearance of waste indiscriminately dumped at some unauthorised locations following diesel scarcity and its exorbitant price, which negatively affected the waste evacuation efforts of the PSP operators and the agency.

    Some of the areas already covered by the intensive operations include Mushin; Oshodi; Ejigbo; Lagos Mainland; Apapa axis; Surulere; Lagos Island; Ikoyi; Lekki axis; Victoria Island; and Ajah, among others.

    Recall that the LAWMA helmsman, a few days ago, promised that the agency would use the opportunity of cessation of rainfall and appreciable progress on landfills’ rehabilitation, to cart away the backlog of waste.

    Commenting on the progress made so far, Odumboni said: “Remember I said during the week, that we will capitalize on the cessation of rainfall and progress made on the rehabilitation of our landfills, to clear the heaps of waste.

    “The strategy has paid off as we have successfully cleared waste in most areas of our Lagos Central 1 and 2, as well as East 1 and 2 districts. We are happy at the pace of progress, and the operations will continue until all parts of Lagos are covered”, he stressed.

    Odumboni further appealed for support from residents to stem the tide of improper waste disposal, by bagging and containerizing their waste, as well as patronizing assigned PSP operators, adding that those caught in the act of reckless waste disposal would be made to face the law. 

    “We are appealing for cooperation from all residents to restore sanity back to our environment. Bagging and containerization of waste, while waiting for evacuation by assigned PSP operators, remains an effective means of curbing indiscriminate waste disposal. Anyone caught dumping indiscriminately would be sanctioned accordingly”, he said. 

    He enjoined residents with complaints and enquiries on waste management-related issues in their areas, to please call LAWMA toll-free lines – 07080601020 and 617 for prompt intervention.