Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Government has responded to growing concerns over waste accumulation in some areas of the state, attributing the issue to the ongoing decommissioning of the Olusosun landfill.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a statement on Monday, explained that refuse previously destined for Olusosun is now being transported to alternative facilities in Epe and Badagry, causing temporary pressure on the evacuation system.
“Firstly, the ongoing decommissioning of the Olusosun landfill has necessitated a significant shift in waste disposal logistics. Refuse previously destined for Olusosun is now being transported to alternative facilities in Epe and Badagry. This change has, understandably, increased turnaround times for some Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators and created temporary pressure within the evacuation system,” Wahab stated.
He disclosed that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has been directed to provide immediate support in areas where Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators are overwhelmed.
He added, “To bolster our response, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has been directed to provide immediate support in areas where PSP operators are overwhelmed. Intervention activities are actively ongoing, particularly at identified black spots across the state. Furthermore, to enhance LAWMA’s capacity, discussions are ongoing about the procurement and deployment of additional trucks to improve response times and ensure more efficient evacuation.
“Beyond immediate intervention, we are strengthening enforcement measures. A dedicated Task Force has been established to specifically combat illegal roadside dumping and indiscriminate waste disposal caused majorly by illegal road side trading throughout Lagos. This team will be strategically deployed and fully empowered to enforce environmental laws without exception with their 24 hours surveillance and enforcement operations.”
Furthermore, the state appealed to residents to celebrate the Yuletide period responsibly saying, “Whether for personal milestones, holidays, or community events, we urge you to protect our environment by disposing of all waste appropriately through your approved PSP operators and shunning any act of littering”.
The government assured Lagosians that it is committed to achieving a cleaner, more orderly, and sustainable city.
