LAWMA environmental prosecutions reached 400 in 2025 as Lagos enforces waste laws and urges residents to adopt responsible disposal practices

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, on Monday in Lagos announced that the agency prosecuted 400 cases of environmental infractions in 2025, including a recent instance in which a man convicted of indiscriminate dumping is currently serving a jail term.

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Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin made the disclosure saying that, a flagship programme according to a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Waste Management Authority, Mukaila Sanusi.

He said the enforcement figures reflected LAWMA’s strong commitment to upholding environmental laws and promoting accountability in a rapidly urbanising city, where poor waste practices have repeatedly undermined progress.

The LAWMA chief described the custodial sentence as a decisive warning to would-be violators, highlighting the agency’s role in protecting public health and maintaining urban order.

He said LAWMA had sustained waste evacuation and management operations across Lagos State, strengthened routine collection services and intensified the clearing of flashpoints created by illegal dumping and improper waste handling.

Dr Gbadegesin urged residents to embrace responsible waste disposal practices, stressing that proper handling of waste remained central to achieving a cleaner, more liveable and sustainable city.

He emphasised the importance of sorting waste at source, explaining that separating recyclable materials from general refuse improves collection efficiency, supports recycling initiatives and reduces the burden on landfill sites.

The LAWMA chief highlighted the agency’s growing focus on recycling, noting that waste should no longer be seen solely as refuse but as a resource with economic value capable of generating employment and attracting private sector investment.

Also advocated a circular economy approach, in which materials are recovered, reused and recycled, describing the model as a powerful strategy for creating economic opportunities while reducing environmental impact.

He called on residents to support LAWMA environmental prosecutions by avoiding indiscriminate dumping and promptly reporting violations, stressing that public cooperation is vital to maintaining cleanliness and order across Lagos State.

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Dr Gbadegesin reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to working with stakeholders to strengthen waste management systems and promote a cleaner, healthier and more resilient Lagos.