The Lagos Waste Management Authority has urged media organisations to ensure accurate and contextual reporting on waste management activities across the state, while providing clarification on how solid waste collection is carried out in Lagos.
Eko Hot News reports that the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Lagos Waste Management Authority, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, made the clarification on Friday while responding to recent reports concerning waste evacuation challenges in parts of Lagos State.
Gbadegesin explained that routine household waste collection is carried out by licensed Private Sector Participant (PSP) operators who function under the regulatory supervision of the agency. According to him, these operators are responsible for waste collection from homes and neighbourhoods across the state.
He noted that the authority focuses on monitoring the performance of PSP operators to ensure they meet established service standards. The agency also enforces compliance with operational guidelines and maintenance requirements to maintain effective waste management operations.
The LAWMA boss encouraged residents to report any gaps in waste collection services within their communities. He stressed that feedback from residents helps the authority respond quickly and ensure that service providers deliver according to the approved standards.
Gbadegesin also addressed public misconceptions regarding compactor trucks used for residential waste evacuation across Lagos. He explained that the trucks are owned and operated by PSP operators, not the agency.
According to him, the presence of LAWMA inscriptions on the trucks serves only as a regulatory identification marker. This helps authorities monitor operators and confirm that vehicles involved in waste collection are registered and approved under the state’s waste management framework.
The managing director further assured residents that all designated landfill facilities within Lagos State remain operational and accessible to licensed operators. He added that the sites are professionally managed to ensure environmentally responsible waste disposal.
Gbadegesin explained that the state government continues to strengthen its waste management structure to support a rapidly growing population. Lagos, with an estimated population exceeding 22 million people, requires a coordinated system that balances collection, transportation, and disposal.
He highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving the efficiency of the sector. One of the key initiatives is the optimisation of Transfer Loading Stations (TLS), which helps reduce travel time for waste collection vehicles and improve operational efficiency.
The authority is also expanding Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) across the state. These facilities support recycling and resource recovery, helping to reduce the amount of waste transported to landfill sites.
According to Gbadegesin, the expansion of these facilities forms part of Lagos State’s broader transition toward a circular economy. The approach focuses on recycling, reuse of materials, and responsible resource management.
He noted that the strategy will also reduce reliance on landfills while promoting sustainable environmental practices across the state.
LAWMA reiterated its commitment to improving waste management services through collaboration with private operators, community engagement, and modern waste management systems.
The agency also encouraged residents, businesses, and media organisations to support efforts aimed at maintaining a cleaner and healthier environment in Lagos.
With continuous reforms and improved monitoring systems, the Lagos Waste Management Authority says it remains focused on building a more efficient and sustainable waste management system for the state.
