The festive season in Lagos State saw an extraordinary surge in waste generation, met with an equally massive response from the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). The agency recorded an unprecedented average of 576 trips per day to dumpsites across the state during the peak celebration period.
Unprecedented Scale of Operations
Faced with a significant spike in refuse production, LAWMA launched extensive operations to ensure Lagos remained clean, healthy, and welcoming for both residents and visitors. The authority's commitment was demonstrated through large-scale deployment, optimized resources, and a workforce dedicated to round-the-clock service.
An official revealed that activities were intensified across all 11 operational regions, covering Lagos State's three Senatorial Districts. This ensured enhanced waste management services reached every corner of the metropolis.
"The Authority deployed 94 out of its 102 waste collection trucks, supplemented by hired trucks from PSP operators with excess chassis," the official stated. "Together, these resources facilitated an average of 576 trips per day to the dumpsites, with operations running continuously throughout the festive period." This high level of activity was crucial to match the increased waste output from celebrations.
Proactive Measures and Cultural Support
LAWMA's strategy extended beyond just collection. The agency implemented effective bin management to prevent environmental nuisance. All bin locations were promptly attended to, with regular lifting to avoid overspilling. A system of bin interchange ensured that waste did not pile up on the ground while trucks were at dumpsites, maintaining service reliability and public confidence.
The authority also played a vital role in supporting major cultural events. During the recent Eyo Festival, LAWMA worked diligently before, during, and after the event to clean the venue and its surroundings. Streets and roads in the Lagos Island/Central Business District (CBD) hinterland leading to the festival were thoroughly sanitized. This effort highlighted LAWMA's contribution to promoting Lagos as a city of culture, tourism, and global relevance.
Leadership and Operational Efficiency
LAWMA's Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, credited the success to improved operational efficiency and workforce dedication. He noted enhancements at the Olusosun landfill site, which provided better access for trucks and reduced turnaround time at the tipping face.
"This intervention allowed for faster waste evacuation, minimised delays, and supported the overall effectiveness of the festive period operations," Gbadegesin said. He emphasized that the achievement was driven by staff who worked tirelessly on December 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28.
"Their round-the-clock service ensured that Lagos remained clean before, during and after the celebrations, despite the surge in waste generation. This commitment reflects the Authority’s mission to safeguard public health and environmental sustainability," he added.
Gbadegesin concluded that the festive operations showcased a comprehensive and coordinated approach to waste management. Through optimized logistics, prompt bin management, improved landfill access, and support for cultural events, LAWMA ensured Lagos stayed clean, orderly, and welcoming during one of its busiest times, reinforcing its vital role in sustaining the megacity's image.
