The Lagos State Government has declared zero tolerance for indiscriminate waste dumping on roads and is set to establish a special “Waste Police” to strengthen environmental sanitation across the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the move follows Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive for the immediate evacuation of waste from major roads and public spaces in Lagos.
State officials said the initiative is aimed at improving environmental cleanliness, protecting public health, and promoting a more sustainable urban environment.
To achieve this goal, the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation and the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) have partnered with transport unions to improve waste management practices.
The collaboration involves the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), both of which have pledged support for cleaner motor parks and transport facilities.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting, the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, stressed the importance of maintaining clean roads, parks, and garages throughout Lagos.
He noted that transport operators play a critical role in keeping public spaces clean and ensuring proper waste disposal within their operational areas.
According to the Commissioner, transport unions are expected to discourage improper waste disposal and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
Osiyemi explained that the Ministry would intensify monitoring and enforcement activities to ensure that waste is managed responsibly across transport hubs.
He reiterated that roads are designed for transportation purposes and should not be used as dumping sites for refuse.
The Commissioner further disclosed that the proposed Waste Police will be drawn from members of transport unions operating across local government areas.
Their responsibility will include monitoring parks, garages, and surrounding areas to ensure compliance with sanitation guidelines.
The Waste Police initiative is expected to support existing environmental management efforts and improve cleanliness in public spaces.
Officials believe the programme will encourage stronger community participation in maintaining a cleaner Lagos.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Sam Egube, highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies and transport stakeholders.
He noted that transport operators in many parts of the world actively support efforts to maintain transport infrastructure and public facilities.
Egube encouraged stakeholders to embrace their responsibilities and contribute to efforts aimed at improving environmental conditions across the state.
He added that collective action remains essential in addressing waste management challenges and promoting a healthier environment.
Special Adviser on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, also called on transport unions to strengthen their role in waste control and environmental sustainability.
He urged NURTW and RTEAN leadership to ensure that all members comply with sanitation regulations within parks and garages.
According to him, effective waste management requires commitment, discipline, and cooperation from all stakeholders.
The Lagos State Government has continued to implement various environmental initiatives aimed at making the state cleaner and more livable.
These initiatives include public awareness campaigns, routine sanitation exercises, waste collection improvements, and stronger enforcement measures.
Environmental experts have repeatedly emphasized the need for proper waste disposal to prevent drainage blockage and environmental degradation.
Authorities believe that cleaner roads and public spaces will contribute significantly to improved public health and urban development.
The latest initiative also aligns with the state’s broader vision of creating a more organized and environmentally responsible society.
Residents have been encouraged to support government efforts by disposing of waste responsibly and reporting environmental violations when necessary.
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that the Waste Police initiative will strengthen compliance and improve sanitation standards across Lagos.
The government maintained that environmental cleanliness remains a shared responsibility requiring active participation from residents, businesses, and transport operators.
Officials reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining efforts that promote cleaner roads, healthier communities, and a better quality of life for all Lagosians.
As implementation plans progress, authorities expect the initiative to serve as an additional layer of monitoring and support for environmental management across the state.
The establishment of the Waste Police reflects Lagos State’s determination to tackle waste disposal challenges and maintain cleaner public spaces through stronger partnerships and enforcement.
