Flood Management: LAWMA Urged to Take Immediate Action

Flood Management: LAWMA Urged to Take Immediate Action

Prevention is always cheaper than cure. Ignoring impending dangers often leads to devastating consequences.

In the wake of the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri, I extend my heartfelt sympathy to the victims who are enduring a difficult period. I am also calling on the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and all relevant environmental protection agencies across federal, state, and local governments to take urgent preventive measures. It is imperative that they learn from the Maiduguri flood to avoid similar catastrophic events in Lagos.

Like renowned cleric Primate Elijah Ayodele, I foresee a looming risk of severe floods in vulnerable areas of Lagos, such as Ikorodu, Oworonshoki, and Ajah. Immediate action is needed to safeguard lives and property. A recent research I conducted in Lagos revealed that a significant number of residents in flood-prone areas are unwilling or unable to pay refuse collection fees due to the economic hardship. This has led to a dangerous practice of improper waste disposal into drainage systems and canals, further increasing the flood risk.

Waste sorting has become a source of income for many, but security concerns in certain communities have limited access for waste collectors. In light of this, I appeal to LAWMA to extend free waste collection services to flood-prone areas, encouraging residents to sort their waste in exchange for payment. This would not only reduce the financial burden on residents but also mitigate the risk of improper waste disposal.

Similar to how the power sector categorizes customers into different payment bands, LAWMA should adopt a tiered payment structure. This would differentiate between those who can afford to pay for refuse collection and those in flood-prone areas who may not have the means. The goal should be to prevent indiscriminate waste disposal, which could lead to larger disasters for everyone.

LAWMA must act swiftly by deploying its trucks to these vulnerable areas, ensuring residents have no excuse to litter drainage systems. When properly implemented, the community can play a proactive role in reporting and preventing non-compliant behavior.

Now is the time for action, not reaction. Let’s prevent another disaster in Lagos.

*Adagunduro Elias Abayomi writes from Lagos, Nigeria.*