As Easter approaches, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has stepped up efforts to ensure cleanliness across Lagos State, warning residents against improper waste disposal that could worsen environmental and public health challenges.
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, disclosed the agency’s intensified operations in a statement issued at the Authority’s headquarters. He explained that additional resources and monitoring systems had been put in place to manage the expected rise in waste generation during the festive season.
“Festive seasons typically witness increased waste generation, making it necessary for both service providers and residents to play their respective roles in maintaining a clean environment,” Gbadegesin said.
The agency has deployed additional personnel, equipment, and monitoring teams to key locations across the metropolis. Markets, motor parks, busy commercial areas, and other high-traffic zones have been prioritized to ensure timely waste collection and avoid accumulations that could lead to flooding, especially with the rainy season approaching.
Gbadegesin emphasized that collaboration between LAWMA and licensed Private Sector Participant operators was critical to maintaining regular domestic waste evacuation. The authority has put systems in place to quickly identify and address service gaps, ensuring that no area is left unattended during the festive period.
“Maintaining a clean environment is a shared responsibility requiring cooperation between government, service providers, and residents,” the LAWMA boss said.
In addition to operational measures, Gbadegesin advised residents to adopt simple waste reduction practices. These include avoiding unnecessary purchases, reusing materials where possible, and separating recyclable items from general waste. Proper sorting and disposal, he noted, not only improve sanitation but also make waste management more efficient.
Residents were also cautioned against dumping refuse in drainage channels, road medians, and open spaces. Such actions can block the free flow of storm water, increasing the risk of flooding and environmental hazards during the rainy season.
“This is a time when everyone must be responsible,” Gbadegesin said. “Residents need to play their part by disposing of waste properly, while LAWMA ensures that the infrastructure and services are in place to support them.”
The authority has also made it easy for residents to report waste-related issues. Citizens can contact LAWMA’s customer care line or use the agency’s social media platforms for prompt response and intervention.
Lagos, being Nigeria’s commercial hub, faces enormous challenges in waste management, particularly during festive periods. The combination of high population density, increased commercial activity, and celebratory events often leads to a surge in waste production, putting pressure on waste collection systems.
Lagos has experienced seasonal flooding in the past, with blocked drainage channels frequently exacerbated by indiscriminate dumping of refuse. The state government and LAWMA have, over the years, emphasized the importance of keeping drains clear and streets clean to prevent avoidable disasters.
Past campaigns by LAWMA and other environmental bodies have highlighted how small actions by residents—like separating waste for recycling or avoiding dumping in unauthorized areas—can make a major difference in public health and sanitation.
To cope with the anticipated increase in waste during Easter, LAWMA has intensified its monitoring and operational support. Teams are now equipped with additional waste trucks, street sweepers, and personnel to cover high-density areas. Special attention is being given to locations where large crowds are expected, such as major markets and motor parks.
The agency has also coordinated with state authorities and private waste operators to ensure that waste collection remains consistent, even during public holidays. Gbadegesin assured residents that LAWMA would continue to improve service delivery through better operations, infrastructure upgrades, and sustained public awareness campaigns.
The success of LAWMA’s Easter operations, according to Gbadegesin, relies heavily on community cooperation. Residents are encouraged to avoid littering, dispose of waste properly, and report environmental hazards promptly.
“Together, we can prevent the health risks associated with improper waste disposal, reduce flooding, and maintain a clean, healthy environment for all,” he said.
The authority’s proactive approach is designed not only to manage the immediate challenges of the Easter period but also to set a precedent for year-round environmental responsibility. By combining operational efficiency with public awareness, LAWMA hopes to minimize waste-related risks and ensure a cleaner Lagos.