LAWMA takes cleanliness campaign to Dopemu, Ipaja in Lagos

By Blessing Chinagorom

In continuation of its state-wide campaign for environmental cleanliness, Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has taken its motorized advocacy campaign, tagged “War on Waste” to Dopemu-Iyana Ipaja axis, primarily to inspire attitude change among the residents.

It comes on the heels of a similar road show, held along Lekki Toll Gate, Jakande and Ajah area of Eti-Osa Local Government of the state.

Speaking at Dopemu Roundabout by Santos Estate, Akowonjo Road, Egbeda, the LAWMA Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by the director of advocacy unit, Mr. Adewumi Adetona, noted that the campaign theme, “War on Waste”, was a determined move to tackle the menace of indiscriminate dumping, non-patronage of PSP operators and improper waste containerization prevalent in the state.
He said: “With over 20 million residents, Lagos generates 13,000 metric tonnes of waste on a daily basis. The Authority bears the brunt of evacuating much of the waste on road median, streets, canals and drainage channels everyday.

“However, it is not sustainable for us as an agency, to continue with the same task without sensitizing you on your role in the waste management chain. That is why we have come up with this intervention.

“Our Advocacy Unit has always been on the move to enlighten residents, traders and communities. This is the second public roadshow we are having and the goal is to ensure the message of sustainable waste management practices gets to everyone.
“I want to implore you to relay the message to others and spread the gospel of a positive environmental consciousness to everyone around you.

“Let’s start from our homes by purchasing a waste bin for proper containerization of the waste we generate; separate organic waste from recyclables, patronize assigned PSP operators and pay for waste services promptly.

“Embrace the opportunities in recycling and start earning an income from your waste. Should you have any complaints about PSP services, call the Authority’s toll free lines and be attended to. Together, we can achieve a cleaner and safer Lagos,’’ he noted.

Also speaking, the head of marketing and sales, Adopt-a-bin, Mrs Adedoyin Oyefusi , noted that the new smart bins, which could be acquired through installment payments, was carefully designed to prevent theft and enhance waste management efficiency for residents.
She said” We are committed to promoting sustainable waste management practices that will enhance a healthy living. To achieve this, LAWMA decided to introduce smart bins to help us achieve our goal of a cleaner Lagos.

“This campaign is tagged “war on waste” because we do not want to see any waste dumped recklessly. Therefore, we implore you to procure the waste bins and dispose of your waste properly into the bins,’’ she stressed.

The campaign train sensitized people in English, Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa and pidgin languages on the essence of proper waste management, singing and dancing while also engaging traders and commuters on all inclusive and participatory sensitization.

The roadshow which terminated at Iyana Ipaja Round About, had in attendance, the Authority’s management staff, members of departments and units, street sweepers, medical staff.

Also, the neighbourhood watch, enforcement personnel, officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), LAWMA ambassador, Alhaji Sikiru Ademola Junaid, popularly known as Lemon.

For waste management related issues and complaints, please call LAWMA toll-free numbers: 080000LAWMA (08000052962), 07080601020 and 617, or visit www.lawma.gov.ng.