LAWMA cracks down on illegal waste disposal, cleans up Lagos

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified its enforcement and clean-up operations across the state, targeting illegal waste disposal and environmental violations to ensure a cleaner Lagos.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to keeping the state clean, stating that its monitoring and enforcement teams had been deployed to enforce compliance with waste management regulations.

“LAWMA is determined to eradicate illegal waste dumping and environmental violations. Our Environmental Monitoring and Enforcement Anti-Cart Pushers Squad has been actively dismantling illegal waste operations that pollute our environment. We urge residents to stop patronising unregistered cart pushers and instead work with approved PSP operators for proper waste disposal,” Gbadegesin said.

Recent enforcement operations were carried out in Ifako-Ijaiye, Dopemu, Agege, Ojodu Berger, and other areas, leading to the arrest of cart pushers who illegally collect and dump waste at unauthorised locations. Gbadegesin stressed that such activities violate environmental laws and undermine government efforts to maintain a clean and sustainable city.

He warned that ignorance of the law would not be accepted as an excuse, adding that anyone caught engaging in illegal waste disposal would face legal consequences.

In addition to enforcement, LAWMA has commenced the evacuation of waste from illegal dumpsites along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, particularly behind Circle Mall. Similar operations are ongoing at Mile 2 on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway as part of efforts to remove accumulated waste, clear silt along medians and verges, and prevent indiscriminate waste disposal on highways.

LAWMA has also ramped up efforts to clean up Lagos waterways, ensuring rivers and water bodies remain free of waste and blockages. The initiative aims to curb environmental pollution and promote cleaner water channels across the state.

Gbadegesin called on Lagos residents to support LAWMA’s waste management initiatives in 2025 by properly disposing of their waste, reporting service lapses, and utilising the agency’s helplines for waste collection assistance.

“A cleaner Lagos is within reach if everyone plays their part. We urge residents to work with PSP operators, report waste-related violations, and embrace responsible waste disposal habits. Together, we can build a healthier and cleaner city,” he added.