The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) is introducing comprehensive operational and infrastructure changes to tackle the ongoing issue of waste accumulation across the state. Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the managing director, stated that the initiative aims to modernize the current system as the city grapples with the limitations of aging landfills like Olusosun and Solous III.
Lagos generates up to 15,000 tonnes of waste daily, and the state is transitioning toward a circular economy model. This shift involves constructing transfer loading stations and material recovery facilities that will process waste into energy, compost, and recycled materials. These projects are expected to generate 5,000 jobs by early 2027. Additionally, the authority is rolling out biodigesters to convert organic market waste into renewable energy.
Gbadegesin emphasized that public cooperation is essential, as many residents avoid using registered private waste operators. He urged citizens to refrain from illegal dumping and instead contact LAWMA for support if collectors fail to arrive. The authority continues to monitor service providers through its performance matrix and has initiated Project WISE to identify and prosecute individuals who dump waste on roadsides.
To further address the crisis, LAWMA is expanding door-to-door tricycle collections in tight urban areas and establishing community recycling centers. While the state currently requires 2,000 compactor trucks, government investments are underway to increase the fleet significantly before year-end. Gbadegesin expects these collective efforts to yield visible improvements in environmental sanitation across Lagos by the upcoming holiday season.
