LASG Hosts Stakeholders’ Forum on Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management

LASG Hosts Stakeholders’ Forum on Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management

The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to sustainable environmental practices with the organisation of a one-day stakeholders’ forum on Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste (CDDW) management.

The forum, held in Ikoyi on Tuesday, was convened by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) in collaboration with Wastecare Solutions Ltd, bringing together industry experts, government officials, and private sector players to address the rising challenges of construction-related waste. The theme of the event was “Building Responsibly and Driving Efficiency: Strengthening Stakeholder Collaboration in Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management in Lagos State.”

Delivering the keynote address, Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, represented by Mr. Adeoye Babajide, said the forum was aimed at developing strategies that would enhance environmental sustainability, safety, and livability in the state.

He noted that Lagos, as Nigeria’s economic hub with a rapidly growing population, could not afford unmanaged waste, stressing the need for reduction, reuse, and recycling in line with global circular economy principles.

“The theme is critical, timely and a calculated step aimed at harnessing approaches to construction and demolition waste management, focusing on sustainability and environmental safety,” Wahab said.

He warned that strict compliance with government regulations on waste handling and disposal was mandatory for operators in the construction sector, adding that non-compliance could attract sanctions, including sealing of project sites.

Earlier in his address, LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by the agency’s Executive Director, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, said partnership remained central to the state’s waste management goals.

“Lagos thrives on collaboration and partnerships. Through coordinated efforts, we can achieve sustainable development and better outcomes for our communities,” he stated.

Guest speaker, Dr. Tijani Ajibola, in a paper titled “Bridging the Gap between Policy and Practice: Strengthening Compliance in Construction and Demolition Waste Management”, emphasised that CDDW contributes significantly to air pollution, urging responsible management from planning to disposal and recycling to safeguard the environment for future generations.

The forum also featured goodwill messages from the Oba of Iru Land, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, represented by Chief Adebayo; Architect Ekaete Bassey of Architect Nigeria; Ogunba Abiola of the Lagos State Wastewater Management; Sheriff Daramola, President of IFMA Nigeria; as well as representatives of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing and the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority.

Panel discussions and technical sessions rounded off the event, with participants brainstorming actionable strategies to strengthen waste management practices in Lagos.