Lagos Environment Commissioner responds to Rhodes-Vivour over waste crisis

Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has responded to criticisms regarding waste management and flooding raised by African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour.

Rhodes-Vivour previously described parts of Lagos as “stinky” during a television appearance, highlighting concerns over waste evacuation and recurring floods ahead of the 2027 governorship election. In response, Wahab acknowledged that the state faces collection failures, underperforming Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators, and operational bottlenecks.

However, the commissioner defended the state's strategy, noting that Lagos generates between 13,000 and 15,000 tonnes of municipal waste daily. He cited data from May 2026, where the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and PSP operators evacuated approximately 418,500 tonnes, averaging 13,200 tonnes per day. Wahab explained that delays at disposal facilities often disrupt collection schedules and truck turnaround times. He also highlighted recent improvements at the Olusosun disposal facility, including the rehabilitation of Road E, which has increased truck movements at the site.