Lagos waste crisis sparks resident concerns as LAWMA pledges improvements

Residents in Surulere and other Lagos districts complained that weeks‑old refuse heaps remained uncollected despite participation in the state's monthly environmental sanitation exercise. The lingering waste created offensive odours, blocked drainage, fostered mosquito breeding and raised fears of flooding and disease, prompting some households to hire private cart pushers.

Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) Managing Director Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin said the collection delays stem from the city's growing population and recent flooding around the Olusosun dumpsite. He assured that the situation will improve within six to eight months as new compactor trucks arrive, additional disposal facilities are built, and material‑recovery plants are completed in Badagry and other areas. Gbadegesin noted that only 30‑40 % of private‑sector participants face challenges and urged residents to store waste properly and report service lapses.