By Kehinde KOLAWOLE
… Residents Called to Action to Take Part in Neighborhood Cleanup Efforts
In celebration of this year’s World Cleanup Day, themed “Arctic Cities and Marine Litter,” the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified efforts to combat marine waste along the city’s coastline. The authority has scaled up its operations, aiming to address the growing challenge of ocean pollution and safeguard the marine ecosystem. With these enhanced activities, LAWMA is reaffirming its commitment to keeping Lagos’ waterways clean and raising awareness about the impact of litter on both urban environments and the world’s oceans.
According to a press statement signed by the Director, Public Affairs, Kadiri Folashade (Mrs.), it states that the state has ramped up efforts to clear waste from its water bodies by deploying marine waste operatives. This initiative aims to reduce the environmental and health risks posed by marine litter along the coastline, safeguarding both the ecosystem and public well-being.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director and CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), highlighted the growing threat posed by unchecked waste disposal in Lagos’ coastal waters. With the city’s rivers, canals, and lagoons increasingly clogged by marine litter, the pollution endangers both the region’s diverse ecosystems and the health of its residents. The situation has become a serious concern as it threatens Lagos’ rich biodiversity and poses risks to human well-being, driven by the rampant dumping of waste into the city’s waterways.
He said, “We are deeply concerned about the rising level of waste that finds its way into our waterways. Marine pollution is not only a local issue, but also a global challenge, especially for cities along the coast like Lagos. LAWMA is committed to ensuring that we rid our water bodies of the litter that endangers both human and marine life”.
Gbadegesin highlighted LAWMA’s innovative efforts to tackle marine pollution in Lagos through its Marine Waste department. Using specialized boats and equipment, the agency has been actively clearing waste from the city’s waterways. This initiative is bolstered by community outreach programs aimed at educating residents, especially in coastal regions, on proper waste disposal and recycling practices. These combined efforts are part of LAWMA’s broader strategy to protect Lagos’ marine environment and promote sustainable waste management.
“Our Marine Waste Unit has recorded tremendous success, removing tons of waste from our waterways. But this challenge requires collective responsibility. We urge residents, especially those living in coastal and riverine communities, to be more responsible in waste management. Every piece of litter that ends up in the water poses a serious threat to our environment”, he added.
As part of this year’s World Clean-up Day, the LAWMA boss announced a series of clean-up campaigns across the state’s waterfronts. He urged residents to take responsibility for protecting both aquatic ecosystems and human lives, emphasizing the importance of a collective effort to maintain a cleaner metropolis.
Similarly, the Authority announced plans to launch a motorized advocacy campaign in the Lekki and Ajah areas in the coming days. The initiative aims to raise awareness among residents about the serious dangers of indiscriminate waste disposal, particularly in water bodies. The campaign will emphasize the environmental hazards and long-term consequences of polluting waterways, encouraging the community to adopt responsible waste management practices.
“World Cleanup Day is an opportunity for everyone to take direct action. Our waterways are a vital part of Lagos’ identity, and it’s our collective duty to protect them. I urge all residents to join us in cleaning up the city, not just because its world cleanup day but we should make it a habit. It’s not just about today; it’s about instilling long-term habits that prevent waste from reaching our water bodies”, Gbadegesin stressed.
For waste management related issues and complaints, please call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.
