CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK

The State complements the LASEPA by setting up Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). The functions of this Authority among others are: Require to be produced, examine and take copy of any license, permit, certificate or any other document required under this Law; Require to be produced and examine any appliance, device or other item used in relation to environmental protection; Enter into programs agreements of technical assistance with public or private bodies concerning environmental protection;

Apply enforcement measures to combat environmental degradations in manufacturing premises and government operations; Enter and search vehicles, tents and other structures in any premises engaged in carrying out manufacturing operations or business; Perform tests and take samples of any substance found on any premises searched; and;
Accept gifts of land, money, books or other properties upon such terms and conditions as may be specified by the person making the gifts if such terms and conditions attached are not inconsistent with the functions of the Agency.

Abuja Environmental Protection Board Act 1997 S.6 thereof provides for its function to cover:
The functions of the Authority shall be to –the Authority.

Clean street, remove, collect and dispose of domestic, commercial and industrial waste;
Remove and dispose of abandoned and scrapped vehicles;
Remove and dispose of carcass of dead animals from public places;
Prepare and update from time to time the master plans for waste collection and disposal in the cities, towns, and villages in the State and control resultant waste system within the State;

Approve and monitor all waste disposal systems in the State;
Make provision for waste management services to state agencies, local governments, industries, business entities, private persons within the State by receiving waste at the Authority’s facilities pursuant to contract agreement between the Authority and such other party;
Issue, renew and revoke license of private waste collectors;

Do all such acts as are necessary or incidental to the proper discharge of its duties under this Law.
The Authority may carry out its functions in association with any other person or body lawfully empowered to do so in accordance with the provisions of this Law.
Part IV of the Act Criminalizes failure to obey the regulations stated therein.

Poser
The above laws and regulations and several others promulgated can be said to be “adequate” for our country. However, it is doubtful if most Nigerians concerned with the legislations are aware of their existence in our law books. There is need for us to reflect on Waste Management as we celebrate World Facilities Management Day.

CONCLUDED