The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has launched a motorized advocacy campaign across key areas in Eti-Osa Local Government to raise awareness on environmental sustainability. This initiative is part of LAWMA’s efforts to commemorate World Cleanup Day, engaging residents in the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Through this campaign, the authority aims to foster community participation in waste management and promote long-term eco-friendly practices.
Under the theme “Make Room for Life,” a vibrant roadshow launched at Lekki Toll Gate, winding through key locations in Lagos, including Ilasan, Jakande Bus-stop, Maiyegun Beach Road, Eleganza Bus-stop, Ajah, and culminating at Abraham Adesanya. The initiative aimed to raise awareness about environmental cleanliness and responsible waste management in Lagos State. This event highlighted the urgent need for sustainable practices, encouraging communities to adopt better waste disposal habits and foster a cleaner, greener environment for all.
According to a press statement signed by the Director, public Affairs, Kadiri Folasade (Mrs), it state that the LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasized the importance of the campaign, highlighting it as a key initiative in the agency’s broader mission to inspire collective action for a cleaner, healthier environment. The campaign aims to unite individuals, communities, and organizations in an urgent push for sustainable environmental practices.
He said, “Our goal is to drive a change in behavior and attitudes towards proper waste management in Lagos. Through this motorised advocacy, we aim to engage residents of Eti-Osa and beyond, encouraging them to adopt better waste disposal habits and embrace programs such as our Adopt-a-Bin initiative and Recycling efforts.”
Gbadegesin highlighted that the campaign targets critical waste management concerns, focusing on curbing illegal dumping and the widespread practice of cart pushing. These activities, he noted, have become major environmental challenges in the area, prompting the need for immediate action to restore cleanliness and order.
The Managing Director of LAWMA emphasized that World Cleanup Day is a crucial reminder for Lagos residents to embrace sustainable waste management practices. He highlighted the importance of waste sorting, recycling, and the proper use of designated bins, noting that these habits are essential to minimizing waste on streets and in landfills. By adopting these measures, the city can significantly reduce environmental pollution and promote a cleaner, healthier Lagos.
At the roadshow, conducted in English and Nigeria’s three major languages—Yoruba, Hausa, and Igbo—aimed to promote responsible waste management among residents. The event emphasized the importance of proper waste disposal, encouraging participants to sort, bag, and containerize their waste effectively. Through lively advocacy, the campaign sought to raise awareness about the critical role of waste management in creating cleaner, healthier communities.
A key focus of the campaign was LAWMA’s innovative “Adopt-a-Bin” initiative, showcasing the launch of geo-located smart bins fitted with RFID panels. These advanced bins are designed to curb theft and improve waste management, aligning with Lagos State’s ambition to evolve into a smart city. The initiative aims to enhance residents’ waste disposal experience while promoting a cleaner, more efficient urban environment.
At the laudable event however, Mr. Adewunmi Adetona, Head of LAWMA’s Advocacy Unit, urged residents and business owners to adopt smart bins as part of the city’s efforts to maintain a clean and sustainable environment. He emphasized that a cleaner Lagos is not only vital for public health but also crucial for boosting economic growth and attracting investment. By embracing innovative waste management solutions, Adetona highlighted, the state can pave the way for a greener future while fostering economic opportunities for its people.
Alhaji Sikiru Ademola Junaid, famously known as Lemon and a dedicated ambassador for LAWMA, has been instrumental in raising awareness about waste management in Lagos. Through his unique approach of blending music with advocacy, he engages the community, using his song “Keep Lagos Clean and Recycle Waste” to highlight the importance of proper waste separation. His efforts have inspired many to embrace recycling and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Lagos.
On the campaign trail, a diverse coalition from the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) took center stage, showcasing their dedication to a cleaner, smarter Lagos. Among them were street sanitation sweepers diligently clearing debris, medical staff ready to respond to health needs, vigilant neighbourhood watch teams, and enforcement personnel ensuring compliance. Also present were officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), all working in harmony to emphasize their shared mission: transforming Lagos into a cleaner, more efficient metropolis. Their united front highlighted the commitment to not only improving sanitation but also fostering community well-being and effective traffic management, underscoring a vibrant vision for the future of the state.
For waste management related issues and complaints, please call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.
