Lagos: The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has announced its plan to recruit approximately 300 environmental health personnel to enhance the enforcement of waste management and sanitation practices across the state. The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Olumuyiwa Gbadegesin, shared this development during a recent visit to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Gbadegesin highlighted that the recruitment follows the approval from the state Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu. These personnel will play a crucial role in educating residents on proper waste management and ensuring compliance through enforcement measures against those who disregard the guidelines.
Dr. Gbadegesin emphasized the importance of addressing human behavior in waste management, stating that the recruited officers will focus on modifying sanitation-related behaviors, which he referred to as the “critical software” of waste management. He also noted the need for immediate enforcement
to address illegal waste dumping.
In recent enforcement actions, LAWMA has already arrested 26 individuals for open defecation, underscoring the agency’s commitment to upholding sanitation laws. Dr. Gbadegesin reiterated that education would be the first step, but non-compliance would lead to punitive measures.
To achieve tangible results in waste management, the agency plans to employ various strategies that extend beyond mere waste clearance. Dr. Gbadegesin described waste management as involving not only the physical infrastructure but also the behavioral and regulatory frameworks. He mentioned that LAWMA’s advocacy department has been expanded to work closely with communities and stakeholders to resolve issues collaboratively.