The government of Lagos State is set to launch a specialized unit known as the Waste Police to uphold environmental health standards and prevent illegal dumping on public roadways. This initiative follows a strict zero-tolerance policy mandated by Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, who has ordered the immediate clearance of refuse throughout the state road network.
This policy resulted from a collaborative meeting between the Ministry of Transportation, the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), and major transport unions, including the NURTW and RTEAN. During the session, Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, emphasized that transport operators must maintain hygienic standards at their facilities and discourage illegal trading or waste disposal within their operational zones.
The newly formed Waste Police, composed of transport union members, will monitor motor parks and surrounding areas to stop dumping. LAWMA Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, highlighted that his agency collects 13,000 tons of refuse daily. He stated that because transport unions serve millions of commuters, their active involvement is essential for effective waste management. Stakeholders, including Deputy Chief of Staff Sam Egube and Hon. Sola Giwa, urged union leaders to take ownership of these sanitation goals and report any violations to the authorities for immediate intervention.