The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has announced its intention
to commence the intention to seal exercise, on homes without waste bins
on Lagos Island and Mainland, beginning from 7th July 2023. This follows
the earlier issuance of abatement notices to those areas two months ago,
urging property owners and residents to procure adequate waste bins for
their homes.The Executive Director, Finance of LAWMA, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, gave the
hint in a statement, adding that sufficient notice had been given to
tenements to procure the standard waste bins. He said, “It is crucial
for residents to cultivate proper environmental habits and support the
efforts of the Authority to establish a cleaner and more livable
environment. By taking action against violations and ensuring
compliance, we can create a sustainable environment, and help build a
city of our dream”.

He said the notice of intention to seal would serve as a final warning
to residents who were yet to procure the bins and maintain proper waste
management practices, adding that the enforcement action was aimed at
encouraging responsible environmental behavior and to reduce pollution
in the city.

“LAWMA’s Enforcement Team will target areas on Lagos Mainland and
Island, where violations have been observed. The team will carry out
thorough inspections to identify individuals, households, or businesses,
that have consistently neglected waste management guidelines. Those
found in violation will receive an intention to seal notice, outlining
the specific actions required to rectify the situation and avoid further
penalties. The exercise will be in phases, this is the phase one, and we
will visit other areas in the state to ensure full compliance”, he
stated.

The executive director, urged residents to take responsibility for
maintaining a clean and healthy environment for all, noting that, by
adhering to waste management regulations, residents could contribute to
the overall cleanliness and sustainability of the environment.

“By adhering to government’s directive for tenements to procure standard
covered bins, would ensure that our wastes are properly containerised.
This will help save the environment from indiscriminate waste disposal
and other hazardous consequences, such as flooding and outbreak of
diseases”, he noted.

He said further that LAWMA had been actively working towards improving
waste management in Lagos, implementing various initiatives such as
waste sorting campaigns, recycling programs, and public awareness
campaigns, with the aim of instilling a culture of responsible waste
disposal, to minimise the adverse impact of waste on the environment.

Adebiyi appealed to residents to join hands with the administration of
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to establish a cleaner and healthier
environment, by shunning indiscriminate waste disposal and taking
advantage of the waste management services provided by PSP operators.

For waste management related issues and inquiries, call LAWMA toll-free
numbers: 07080601020 and 617.

By Folashade Kadiri