Lawma, NAN Partner To Boost Awareness On Waste Management

The Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has received a delegation from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), at its headquarters, Ijora-Olopa, in a strategic partnership bid to boost media visibility of LAWMA’s programmes and activities.

NAN’s delegation, led by Mrs. Omowole Ifeyinwa, head of editorial operations, commended LAWMA for its dedication to maintaining environmental sustainability in Lagos State, stressing NAN’s keen interest in collaborating with the agency, to ensure accurate information dissemination of LAWMA’s initiatives.

According to her, “This partnership will position the agency for global recognition and investment opportunities while fostering greater public awareness on waste management best practices and all initiatives put in place to ensure a cleaner Lagos”.

She outlined a variety of products ranging from PR Wire, Adverts, documentary etc, which the authority could take advantage of, for timely news reportage to further reach the grassroots and assist in imbibing the right culture of waste disposal.

“The proposed partnership would also include the production of documentaries showcasing LAWMA's initiatives and successes, further amplifying the agency's impact and reputation’”, she stressed.

Gbadegesin commended the delegation for the interest in partnering with LAWMA, for media mileage and visibility, adding that the huge role of the media in driving sensitisation efforts could not be overlooked, as people continued to migrate to Lagos.

He said, “Despite LAWMA’s ongoing sensitisation campaigns, some residents remain unaware of proper waste disposal methods. Migrants that come into Lagos must be educated on LAWMA’s policies to prevent improper waste disposal. The LAWMA advocacy team has been doing this, to ensure every resident is adequately informed.”

Speaking further on LAWMAs ongoing efforts, he highlighted the agency's commitment to transitioning from a linear waste management model to a circular economy.

He cited a recent feasibility study conducted in collaboration with the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and the Swedish-funded Swedfund, aimed at converting organic waste into biofuel for Lagos mass transit fleet.

“We aim to replicate Sweden’s model, where compactor trucks and buses run on biomethane, reducing landfill dependence and enhancing environmental sustainability,” he stated.

Gbadegesin further noted LAWMA’s recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ghanaian firm Jospong Group, to improve waste management in the state, adding that these efforts aligned with LAWMA’s broader vision of diverting 90% of waste from dumpsites through innovative recycling and resource recovery strategies.

He also stressed the significance of the Private Sector Participation (PSP) model, which comprised 428 operators working in partnership with LAWMA, to manage the city’s daily waste generation of approximately 13,000 tonnes.

He reiterated LAWMA’s push for recycling, noting that companies are willing to purchase recyclable materials, adding, “recycling plastics not only benefits the environment but also provides financial incentives to residents”.

For inquiries, complaints, or further updates, please contact LAWMA through the toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020, and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.