LAWMA Cracks Down on Illegal Recycling and Scavenging in Lagos
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a strong warning to property owners, agents, and private occupiers to desist from illegal recycling and scavenging activities in unlicensed facilities across the state. The agency emphasized that violators would face prosecution and other strict enforcement measures.
In a public notice, LAWMA cautioned against indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, storing, and trading of recyclable materials in both private and public spaces, stressing that such activities degrade the city’s aesthetics and contribute to environmental hazards.
The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reiterated the agency’s commitment to enforcing compliance with the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017. He warned that property owners permitting unauthorized waste activities risk revocation of property rights and other legal consequences.
“LAWMA has observed a rising trend of indiscriminate waste sorting, dumping, and trading of recyclables in unauthorized locations. These activities violate the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and will not be tolerated. Any individual or entity engaging in illegal recycling or scavenging will face strict enforcement measures and penalties as prescribed by law,” Gbadegesin stated.
Citing Part III, Sections 85 and 86 of the law, LAWMA reaffirmed that the deposition of recyclable waste in undesignated locations is strictly prohibited. The agency vowed to take necessary actions, including prosecuting offenders and shutting down violating facilities.
Gbadegesin further urged residents to use only licensed recycling facilities and registered waste collectors to ensure proper waste management. He called on the public to report illegal recycling activities through LAWMA’s official channels.
“We remain committed to achieving a cleaner and more sustainable Lagos, but we need the cooperation of all residents. We urge everyone to comply with the waste management laws of the state and contribute to a healthier environment,” he stressed.
In a related development, LAWMA, in collaboration with the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (LAGESC), has dislodged illegal recyclers and squatters from the Ijora-Olopa underbridge as part of an ongoing enforcement drive to maintain environmental cleanliness.
Gbadegesin assured that the enforcement exercises would continue across Lagos, with zero tolerance for activities that cause environmental degradation.
For further inquiries or to report illegal recycling activities, residents are encouraged to contact LAWMA via its customer service lines: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.
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