LAWMA enlists youth groups in cleaner Lagos push

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) is actively seeking increased engagement from youth organizations to foster a shift in how residents manage their waste. Two prominent clubs, the Rotaract Club of Ikoyi and the Achiever Leo Club, have committed to supporting initiatives focused on recycling and environmental stewardship.

During a visit to LAWMA's headquarters, Managing Director Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin detailed the authority's strategy. This approach emphasizes reducing waste sent to landfills while simultaneously expanding opportunities for material recovery and extracting economic value from discarded items. Gbadegesin highlighted the development of Material Recovery Facilities in locations like Badagry and Agbowa as key components of this sustainable waste management drive. These facilities are designed to enhance the sorting and recovery of recyclable materials and stimulate economic activity within the waste processing sector.

The LAWMA chief also showcased the authority's Academy, which introduces children and young people to practical waste management techniques and sustainable living principles. Products made by interns from discarded materials were displayed, illustrating how recycling can cultivate environmental awareness and entrepreneurial skills. Gbadegesin stressed that achieving sustainable waste management requires a collective effort, underscoring the vital role of residents, businesses, civil society, and youth organizations.

Representatives from the youth clubs, led by Agboola Yussuf of Achiever Leo Club and Olayori Fawaz of Rotaract Club, expressed a better understanding of LAWMA's operations and environmental programs. They commended the authority's initiatives and pledged their collaboration on programs aimed at boosting public awareness and encouraging responsible waste disposal. This engagement integrates youth participation as a crucial element alongside infrastructure and recycling in Lagos's broader strategy to transform its waste management system into one that views discarded materials as valuable resources.