As Lagos prepares for increased human and vehicular activities during the festive season, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has commenced a pre-festive cleaning operation in Ikoyi to clear blocked drainage channels and improve sanitation across the area.

The exercise, which began with the cleaning of drainage channels along the Bourdillon, Alexander and Gerrard corridors, is part of LAWMA’s wider plan to intensify environmental sanitation in strategic parts of the state ahead of the festivities.

eration was designed to tackle accumulated silt, refuse and other obstructions that could hinder the free flow of stormwater.

He said materials removed from the drainage channels were being evacuated immediately to prevent them from being washed back into the drains and creating fresh environmental problems.

According to him, clearing the channels would not only improve water flow but also help create a cleaner and safer environment for residents, businesses and road users in Ikoyi.

Gbadegesin disclosed that the operation would continue on other streets in Ikoyi before moving to Victoria Island and other parts of Lagos as part of the authority’s pre-festive sanitation programme.

He urged residents, businesses and other stakeholders to keep drainage channels free of refuse and ensure that their waste was properly packaged and handed over to accredited Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators for proper disposal.

The LAWMA boss also appealed to residents and businesses to cooperate with sanitation personnel by providing unhindered access to areas requiring attention and avoiding activities that could obstruct cleaning operations.

Gbadegesin reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to sustaining strategic environmental sanitation operations across the state, stressing that keeping Lagos clean was a shared responsibility.

He urged residents and visitors to play their part by disposing of waste responsibly and helping to maintain a cleaner, healthier and more liveable Lagos, particularly during the busy festive period.
Photo: Clearing. Caption: LAWMA officials during the exercise