By Kehinde KOLAWOLE
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the visionary leader at the helm of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), passionately emphasizes the critical role of preserving a pristine environment in our ongoing battle against the relentless scourge of malaria.
In his fervent advocacy, Dr. Gbadegesin paints a vivid picture of a city where cleanliness reigns supreme, where every alleyway and street corner gleams with the promise of a healthier tomorrow. His words serve as a rallying cry, igniting a collective determination to reclaim our neighborhoods from the grip of disease.
Through innovative strategies and unwavering commitment, Dr. Gbadegesin spearheads a transformative movement, turning waste management into a cornerstone of public health. Under his guidance, LAWMA becomes not just an agency, but a beacon of hope, inspiring citizens to take ownership of their surroundings and join the fight against malaria.
In this narrative of renewal, every discarded item finds purpose, every street sweeper becomes a guardian of well-being, and every citizen a steward of the environment. Through unity and perseverance, Dr. Gbadegesin and his team lead the charge towards a cleaner, healthier Lagos, where the shadows of malaria fade beneath the brilliance of a brighter future.
In his address commemorating this year’s World Malaria Day, themed “Accelerating the fight against malaria for a more equitable world,” his words echoed with determination and hope, resonating across the globe like a rallying cry for change.
In the global health narrative of 2022, the World Health Organization sounded an alarm: a staggering 249 million individuals grappled with the relentless grip of malaria worldwide. Amidst this daunting figure, a somber truth emerged — 608,000 lives succumbed to the disease, predominantly in the sun-kissed landscapes of tropical and sub-tropical regions. Yet, amidst the challenge, a beacon of hope shone through, igniting a collective determination to confront this age-old adversary and pave a path towards a healthier, malaria-free world.
In his passionate address, he painted a vivid picture of the battle against malaria, highlighting the crucial role of preventive measures in curbing its impact. With the wisdom of an experienced warrior, he emphasized the importance of maintaining a pristine environment as a formidable fortress against the relentless onslaught of disease-bearing mosquitoes. Through his words, he ignited a flame of hope, inspiring communities to unite in the noble quest for a world free from the shackles of malaria
According to him, “In the fight against malaria, prevention is key. One of the most effective preventive measures is to eliminate mosquito breeding sites by ensuring a clean and hygienic environment. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, waste dumps, and other unhygienic areas. By keeping our homes and surroundings clean, we can significantly reduce mosquito population and consequently, the transmission of malaria.”
In a call to arms for cleaner communities, Gbadegesin passionately rallied residents to embrace an ethos of environmental stewardship. Encouraging a departure from haphazard waste disposal practices, he championed the cause of tidying one’s immediate surroundings. With a nod to the unsung heroes of waste management, Gbadegesin implored citizens to support designated PSP operators, recognizing their pivotal role in the cleanliness equation. Highlighting the profound ripple effect of individual actions, he underscored how each small effort could yield monumental gains in the realm of public health.
“Each of us has a responsibility to keep our surroundings clean. By properly disposing of waste, eliminating stagnant water, and adopting good sanitation practices, we can protect ourselves and our communities from the devastating effects of malaria”, he stressed.
In a resounding declaration of dedication, LAWMA Boss reiterated the organization’s unwavering pledge to champion environmental purity and community well-being. With a seamless orchestration of solid waste collection, efficient transportation, and meticulous disposal protocols, every corner of the state is poised to shine with cleanliness. But their mission doesn’t end there; armed with the power of education, LAWMA embarks on a crusade to enlighten hearts and minds about the paramount significance of environmental hygiene. Together, they’re not just cleaning streets; they’re nurturing a culture of care and stewardship for generations to come.
“As the world marks World Malaria Day, I want to reassure residents of LAWMA’s total commitment to promoting environmental sustainability and public health. Through collaborative efforts between government agencies, communities, and individuals, a cleaner and healthier environment can be achieved, leading to a significant reduction in the burden of malaria and other vector-borne diseases”, he stressed.
For more information about LAWMA’s initiatives and how to support efforts to maintain a clean environment, please visit www.lawma.gov.ng or call our toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617.
Kadiri Folashade (Mrs.)
Director, Public Affairs
26/04/2024
