Lagos: The Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has announced that sweeping reforms and infrastructure upgrades have significantly improved waste collection efficiency across the state. Gbadegesin disclosed these advancements during a courtesy visit to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Gbadegesin stated that LAWMA has expanded its night cleaning operations and increased street sweeping coverage to 1,000 routes statewide. Currently, 16,000 street sweepers are engaged across Lagos, supported by improved logistics and operational systems. Furthermore, LAWMA acquired new equipment three years ago to complement Private Sector Participants (PSP) compactors and rehabilitated old trucks to strengthen fleet capacity, with additional compactor trucks expected in the coming months. Heavy-duty equipment is also being deployed to clear legacy illegal dumpsites across communities.
Gbadegesin highlighted that LAWMA has strengthened human capacity by expanding its advocacy department and deepening collaboration with Community Development Associations (CDAs) and local councils. Each local government now operates a waste management task force, supported by LAWMA integration desks.
On waste-to-wealth initiatives, he revealed that the Lagos State House of Assembly has ratified a concession agreement with ZoomLion to construct transfer loading stations and material recovery facilities. These facilities will enable the closure of the Olusosun and Solous landfills and process 4,000 tonnes of waste daily. Organic waste, which constitutes about 50 percent of Lagos waste, will be converted into compost, while plastics will be recycled into waste bins.
Gbadegesin also disclosed plans for a 1,500-tonnes-per-day waste-to-energy plant in partnership with a Dutch firm, Harvest Waste. The project is expected to generate 60 megawatts of electricity to support emerging industrial zones. Additionally, he highlighted a pilot biogas plant at the Epe Food Market, which processes 500kg of organic waste daily to generate electricity for market operations.
He emphasized the need for stronger media collaboration to enhance public awareness and behavioral change, stating, ‘Waste management is not just about equipment; it is about human behaviour, enforcement and strong regulatory systems.’