Over the past year, LAWMA has been on a mission to transform construction sites across Lagos. With dedication and precision, they’ve hand-delivered 343 reminders, gently nudging builders to keep their spaces tidy. Each notice is a step towards a cleaner, greener future for the vibrant streets of Lagos, where progress and cleanliness walk hand in hand.
During a ministerial press briefing celebrating the one-year milestone of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term, Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab, tasked with overseeing the vital domains of Environment and Water Resources, unveiled a compelling narrative. Amidst the bustling halls of Alausa in Ikeja, Wahab revealed a tapestry of achievements and aspirations, painting a portrait of progress and dedication to the community’s well-being.
Under the watchful eye of LAWMA, they found themselves tangled in a web of notices, each one a reminder of their failure to dance to the tune of construction waste regulations.
Wahab made waves by issuing 354 fresh introductions to eager firms, ushering them into the fold. With a firm hand, enforcement crackled to life, targeting 10 stubborn sites unwilling to heed the call for compliance
According to him, “LAWMA in the last one year has served no less than 343 contravention notices on construction firms at various locations in the state, for not complying with the rules and regulations governing construction waste management. It is the responsibility of the Construction Demolition and Disaster Waste Department of LAWMA, to work with construction firms, for smooth evacuation of waste generated by them. But some of them are not playing by the rules, hence the notices”.
In a candid disclosure, he revealed that the agency had pinpointed 103 notorious trouble spots scattered across the state’s landscape. In response, LAWMA diligently dispatched its task force teams on multiple occasions to eradicate these troublesome zones, ensuring cleanliness and safety for all residents.
He said, “It is a sad commentary that despite persistent public awareness, warnings and actual enforcements, some residents still refuse to patronise assigned PSP operators, preferring to dump waste in canals, on road medians and other illegal points. This habit must stop”.
The commissioner unveiled LAWMA’s strategic move towards a cleaner future. Teaming up with the Ministry of The Environment and Water Resources, they inked an MoU with the illustrious Jospong Group, paving the way for innovative waste treatment solutions. It’s a pact set to redefine environmental stewardship, with promises of sustainable progress and a greener tomorrow
As he perused the MoU, his eyes brightened with a spark of innovation. The document wasn’t just about paperwork; it was a blueprint for transformation. Within its pages lay the promise of revitalizing landfill sites, breathing new life into waste management systems, and igniting the flames of employment opportunity. It wasn’t just a partnership; it was a pact for progress, a commitment to reshape the landscape and foster prosperity from what was once considered waste.
Over the past year, LAWMA has been actively collaborating with renowned organizations like the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) to combat plastic pollution. Their partnership isn’t just about talk; it’s about tangible action. Together, they’ve scouted locations ideal for setting up plastic recycling facilities. It’s not just about cleaning up the mess; it’s about creating opportunities. By mass removing plastic items from our environment, they’re not only preserving nature but also paving the way for job creation. It’s a win-win endeavor that’s both constructive and visionary.
In a tale of maritime marvel, the commander revealed the Marine Unit of LAWMA had bolstered its ranks with five new rafters in the past year. Their mission: to brave the waves, gathering both on-shore and off-shore waste, safeguarding our waters with their eco-warrior spirit.
Moreso, in the bustling maze of the state’s markets, he observed a symphony of change orchestrated by LAWMA. Their year-round engagement with stakeholders had become a beacon of progress, illuminating the path towards better hygiene practices, efficient waste containerization, and swift evacuation efforts. In this dance of transformation, the markets were no longer just hubs of commerce but thriving ecosystems of cleanliness and order.
. In a bold stance against environmental vandalism, Wahab, the vigilant enforcer, issued a stern warning to those defacing the beauty of their surroundings. With the watchful eye of LAWMA, over 1,100 offenders faced the consequences of their actions. Many found themselves tasked with hours of community service, while others felt the weight of fines levied against their disregard for nature’s sanctity. Wahab’s message echoed through the streets, a reminder that harmony with our environment is not just a choice, but a responsibility we all share.
On the basis of this however, he emphasized the crucial need for ongoing stakeholder engagement and public enlightenment across all media channels. With unwavering determination, he championed the dissemination of messages advocating for efficient waste management practices, ensuring that every corner of society receives the vital information needed to sustain the agency’s remarkable momentum of achievements.
In a commendable nod to environmental education, the commissioner lauded the efforts of LAWMA Academy as it continues to broaden its impact on young minds. With an average of 1,400 eager pupils engaged across eight primary schools throughout the state, the initiative is sowing the seeds of waste management knowledge far and wide. This innovative approach not only empowers the next generation with essential skills but also fosters a culture of environmental stewardship from a young age.
Conclusively, Wahab, with a nod of approval, commended LAWMA’s swift action in responding to complaints within a mere 24 hours. He fervently urged residents to steer clear of haphazard waste disposal in unauthorized spots, emphasizing the looming environmental perils as the rains draw near.
Folashade Kadiri
Director, Public Affairs,
LAWMA
6th May 2024
