The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) says it is implementing a long-term strategy aimed at reducing reliance on dumpsites by expanding resource recovery, investing in modern waste processing infrastructure and strengthening environmental education across the state.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, disclosed this while speaking on the weekend edition of Traffic Radio's Talk Time programme.
According to him, the Authority recognises that dumpsites were never intended to serve as permanent solutions for municipal waste management in a rapidly growing megacity such as Lagos, making it necessary to develop more sustainable alternatives.
Dr. Gbadegesin explained that every waste disposal facility has a limited lifespan, adding that LAWMA is focusing on reducing the volume of waste sent to landfill sites while increasing the recovery, recycling and treatment of waste before final disposal.
He said the Authority is investing in Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs), Transfer Loading Stations (TLSs), biodigesters, composting plants and other waste processing infrastructure to improve resource recovery and minimise the quantity of waste requiring disposal at dumpsites.
The LAWMA boss noted that diverting waste from landfill sites not only extends the lifespan of existing facilities but also creates opportunities for economic growth, job creation and environmental sustainability.
He further disclosed that LAWMA is intensifying waste sorting and recycling programmes to ensure recyclable and organic materials are separated and returned to productive use instead of being disposed of as mixed waste.
Dr. Gbadegesin stressed that infrastructure alone cannot guarantee sustainable waste management, noting that public awareness and behavioural change remain critical components of LAWMA's strategy.
He revealed that the LAWMA Academy has become a key platform for environmental education and advocacy, providing residents, schools, markets, estates and community groups with the knowledge and skills needed to adopt responsible waste management practices.
According to him, the Academy is also promoting collaboration with academic institutions, development partners, professional bodies and private sector stakeholders to drive innovation, research and practical solutions that support the circular economy.
The LAWMA Managing Director emphasised that the most sustainable waste is the waste that never reaches a dumpsite, adding that recycling, composting and other resource recovery initiatives help reduce pressure on landfill facilities while contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.
He urged residents to embrace waste sorting at source, patronise only assigned Private Sector Participants (PSPs) and actively support recycling initiatives, describing public participation as essential to achieving a sustainable waste management system.
Dr. Gbadegesin reaffirmed LAWMA's commitment to preparing Lagos for a future where waste is increasingly recycled, recovered and converted into valuable resources, with dumpsites serving only as facilities of last resort within an integrated and resilient waste management framework.