Waste managers lament inflation, harsh operating environment

The Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN) has lamented that the harsh operating environment and poor road infrastructure have negatively affected its operating with many of its members operating at loss, asking for special palliatives for its members to remain in business.

They, therefore, appealed to the Lagos State government through the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to reduce its remittance to the authority from 25 per cent to 10 per cent from waste collection charges.

The President of AWAMN, Mr Olugbenga Adebola, stated this at the unveiling of the association’s planned conference, with the theme: “Redefining Integrated Waste Management In Nigeria Through Circular Economy.”

He said that due to the high cost of doing business in Nigeria at the moment, its members are finding it difficult to sustain their operations and provide quality services to Lagos residents.

He said: “The cost of doing business in Nigeria is going higher. If the cost of doing business is going higher and we keep on paying the 25 per cent to the government, then we are not making anything.

“That is why, to help our members to be sustainable in the industry, we appeal to the Lagos State Government to reduce our 25 percent to 10 percent so that our people can make a profit.”

Providing insights about its forthcoming conference, he said that the AWAMN Conference and Gala Night 2025 slated for February 2025 is aimed at driving Nigeria’s transition from a traditional linear economy to a sustainable circular economy.

Adebola said the conference’s topic would emphasised waste reduction, reuse, and recycling.

He added that the gala night will celebrate industry achievements and foster networking among stakeholders, including waste management professionals, policymakers, environmental organizations, and business leaders.

“We have gotten a series of endorsements, from international missions including the German mission, Spain, and Swiss among others.

“We will also be inviting speakers from within the industry, academics, financial institutions, and environmental entrepreneurs and activists. In fact, all across the waste management stream.

“This event represents an opportunity for collaboration to redefine Nigeria’s waste management landscape while adopting global best practices.”