The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has intensified its enforcement and clean-up operations across the state to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and promote environmental sustainability.

The agency’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasised LAWMA’s unwavering commitment to keeping Lagos clean. He noted that the monitoring and enforcement team has been mobilised to ensure compliance with the state’s waste management laws.

“LAWMA remains resolute in stamping out illegal waste disposal and environmental violations,” he said. “Our Environmental Monitoring and Enforcement Anti-Cart Pushers Squad has been actively dislodging illegal waste operators who contribute to the degradation of our environment. We urge residents to desist from patronising them and instead work with registered PSP operators for proper waste disposal.”

Gbadegesin said the enforcement team had recently carried out major operations in areas such as Ifako-Ijaiye, Dopemu, Agege, Ojodu Berger, and other parts of Lagos, apprehending cart pushers known for collecting waste and dumping it at unauthorised locations.

He stressed that such activities violated environmental laws and undermined the state government’s efforts to maintain a clean and liveable city. He warned that ignorance of the law was not an excuse, adding that anyone caught engaging in cart pushing would face the full wrath of the law.

The LAWMA boss further noted that the authority has commenced the evacuation of waste from illegal dumpsites along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, particularly behind Circle Mall.

Gbadegesin added that the operation, simultaneously taking place along the Mile 2-Badagry Expressway, would continue in the coming weeks, in line with the agency’s ongoing efforts to clear accumulated waste, remove silt along the median and verges, and prevent indiscriminate disposal on highways.

In a separate exercise, LAWMA has intensified efforts to clean up Lagos waterways, ensuring that rivers and other water bodies remain free of waste and blockages. The initiative aims to reduce environmental pollution and promote cleaner water channels across the state.

Gbadegesin urged Lagosians to support LAWMA’s initiatives in 2025 by properly disposing of their waste, reporting service gaps, and calling the agency’s helplines for backup waste collection services.

“A cleaner Lagos is achievable when everyone plays their part. We urge residents to work with assigned PSP operators, report waste-related infractions, and adopt responsible waste disposal habits. Together, we can create a cleaner and healthier city for all,” he added.