Lagos Governor Orders Emergency Waste Evacuation After Report

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered an immediate increase in waste evacuation operations statewide in response to mounting concerns over refuse buildup in numerous communities. The governor announced the directive on Thursday, confirming that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), and the Ministry of Environment have been mobilized to tackle the situation.

"LAWMA, LASEPA, and the Ministry of Environment are currently working around the clock," Mr. Sanwo-Olu stated in a social media post. "We have deployed extra trucks and personnel to clear the backlogs across all affected neighborhoods. You should already see progress on the streets and we will not stop until our city is completely clean again."

This directive follows a PREMIUM TIMES special report that documented extensive refuse accumulation across Lagos and highlighted operational issues within the state's waste management system. The report detailed how roads, medians, and public spaces were littered with waste, causing significant public concern. Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the magnitude of the challenge, noting that Lagos generates over 13,000 tonnes of waste daily, which requires substantial resources and coordination for effective management.

Residents in various communities, including Jakande in Ejigbo LCDA, have complained about delayed or inconsistent waste collection, with some reporting that refuse remained uncollected for extended periods. The investigation found that a combination of rising operational costs for Private Sector Participant (PSP) operators, irregular collection, and weak compliance by some residents has exacerbated waste management problems. Factors such as soaring diesel prices, vehicle maintenance costs, and long distances to disposal facilities have increased operational expenses for PSP operators, making it difficult to maintain regular collection schedules.

Environmental experts have repeatedly warned about the serious public health and environmental risks associated with poor waste management. Blocked drainage channels due to indiscriminate dumping can worsen flooding during the rainy season, while decomposing waste can contaminate soil and water sources, posing further health hazards. The governor appealed to residents to support the ongoing efforts by properly bagging their waste and refraining from dumping it indiscriminately in drainage channels and on roads.

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LAWMA, LASEPA, and the Ministry of Environment are currently working around the clock. We have deployed extra trucks and personnel to clear the backlogs across all affected neighborhoods. You should already see progress on the streets and we will not stop until our city is completely clean again.