LAWMA Intensifies Crackdown on Indiscriminate Waste Dumping Across Lagos

LAWMA Intensifies Crackdown on Indiscriminate Waste Dumping Across Lagos

— Strengthens community-led enforcement, reassures residents on public health safety

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified its enforcement operations across the state, targeting indiscriminate dumping, black spots, and persistent environmental violations that continue to threaten public health and urban resilience.

The Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, who disclosed this in a statement, acknowledged recent waste management concerns in some areas of the state but reassured residents of the Authority’s commitment to ending reckless disposal practices.

According to him, Lagos’ coastal geography makes strict enforcement indispensable to preventing environmental hazards.

“A bag of refuse tossed into a drain anywhere in the metropolis does not disappear. It blocks culverts, worsens flooding, exposes households to contaminated water, and sends plastics and debris into our canals and lagoon systems. Illegal dumping has consequences far beyond the act itself,” he said.

Dr. Gbadegesin noted that LAWMA has shifted from periodic crackdowns to a sustained, intelligence-driven enforcement model that integrates surveillance, community reporting, and swift prosecution of offenders.

He added that the Authority has intensified statewide enforcement campaigns to eliminate indiscriminate waste dumping, arresting and prosecuting persistent violators to serve as a deterrent.

“Enforcement is central to our mission. Lagos cannot achieve a clean, flood-resilient city without consequences for illegal dumping and non-compliance. We are acting decisively to ensure there’s no room for environmental infractions,” he emphasized.

He assured that LAWMA would continue to support PSP operators, including providing backup services in areas requiring urgent intervention, while the state government works to assist PSP operators in recapitalising for improved performance.

Black Spot Cleared in Somolu

In a related development, LAWMA announced the successful evacuation of accumulated waste at a notorious black spot in Somolu Local Council Development Area. The operation was carried out in partnership with Somolu LCDA, Bariga LCDA, and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), which will also support night and early-morning patrols to secure the site.

Dr. Gbadegesin revealed that several offenders had been arrested during the operation, with commercial tricycle operators topping the list of culprits.

“This shows that advocacy and enforcement must be continuous and backed by real-time surveillance,” he said.

The Chairmen of Somolu and Bariga LCDAs pledged full collaboration with LAWMA, in line with the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources’ directive for LGAs and LCDAs to take ownership of waste management within their jurisdictions.

Intensified Public Enlightenment

To deepen environmental awareness, LAWMA has boosted its radio programmes and social media campaigns to educate residents on recycling, proper waste disposal, PSP operations, and penalties for environmental offences.

Dr. Gbadegesin stressed that environmental protection could not be left to government alone and urged residents to avoid patronising cart pushers and to acquire covered bins for proper refuse containment.

He added that LAWMA would continue to work with traditional rulers, market leaders, resident associations, and other stakeholders to curb environmental abuse, while encouraging the public to report suspicious waste-related activities.

“While enforcement is our duty, voluntary compliance is what will secure the future. Lagosians must embrace responsible waste disposal, because a polluted environment eventually harms everyone. Cleanliness is a shared responsibility,” he said.

Residents with waste management complaints or inquiries are encouraged to contact LAWMA via its toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.