LAWMA, police strengthen fight against illegal waste dumping

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and the Lagos State Police Command are strengthening their partnership to combat illegal waste dumping and protect waste management infrastructure. This collaboration seeks to curb activities at unauthorized dumpsites and ensure the safety of LAWMA personnel.

Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, LAWMA's Managing Director, emphasized the need for increased police support during a visit to the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai. Gbadegesin highlighted that Lagos generates between 13,000 and 16,000 tonnes of waste daily, a volume that strains the state's waste management systems.

"The volume of waste generated in the state requires sustained operational interventions, complemented by effective enforcement and inter-agency collaboration to tackle indiscriminate dumping and other environmental violations," Gbadegesin stated. He noted that LAWMA is enhancing waste collection, recycling, and resource recovery initiatives, but stressed that collaboration with security agencies is crucial for enforcing environmental regulations and protecting waste management facilities.

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The volume of waste generated in the state requires sustained operational interventions, complemented by effective enforcement and inter-agency collaboration to tackle indiscriminate dumping and other environmental violations.

Gbadegesin also raised concerns about the resistance and attacks faced by LAWMA personnel, including street sweepers and enforcement officers, from unauthorized individuals and armed scavengers. He called for enhanced security around critical LAWMA facilities and operational areas prone to illegal activities, underscoring that the safety of personnel is vital for efficient waste management operations.

Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai acknowledged LAWMA's significant role in maintaining a clean and healthy environment in Lagos. He commended the authority's efforts and recognized that indiscriminate dumping by some residents continues to undermine the progress made in waste management and environmental sanitation.

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The safety of personnel is essential to sustaining efficient waste management operations in the state.