In an affirmative push toward environmental sustainability, the Lagos State Government is unveiling a comprehensive, multi-sectoral strategy designed to ensure a clean, resilient, and livable city. The commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Lagos State Tokunbo Wahab addressing the waste and sanitation challenges faced by Africa’s most populous megacity, he emphasize that “Lagos is not dirty”; rather, it is evolving with a focus on sustainable waste processing, modernized landfill management, cleaner waterways, and structured sanitation systems.
Modernizing Waste Management: From Dumping to Circular Economy
With over 13,000 tonnes of waste generated daily, more than any other city in West Africa, managing this massive volume is crucial. The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) is spearheading innovations and investments, including:
- Daily waste collection across all 377 wards spanning 57 local government areas to effectively manage residential, commercial, and market waste.
- Recalibrated waste collection routes tailored for underserved areas.
- The introduction of Transfer Loading Stations (TLS) to streamline waste transport and minimize collection inefficiencies.
- Deployment of 150 waste management trucks and heavy machinery, accompanied by over 200 strategically placed public waste bins to deter indiscriminate dumping.
Expanding Services to Underserved Communities
Reflecting the THEMES+ agenda, LAWMA is extending waste collection services to underserved and hard-to-reach neighborhoods. In collaboration with the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, tricycle compactors are being employed to service residents in areas with difficult access through a pay-as-you-go model. The state government plans to expand this initiative with 500 additional tricycle compactors later this year.
These upgrades are integral to a recently signed memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Ghana’s Jospong Group.
Landfill Closure and Transition to Sustainable Processing
In a significant move, the Lagos State Government plans to close the Olusosun and Solous 3 landfills within the next 18 months. This transition will see the establishment of modern Transfer Loading Stations, where waste will be sorted, compacted, and directed to recycling facilities. New Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) will also be set up in Ikorodu and Badagry, in partnership with Jospong Group, aimed at maximizing resource recovery and minimizing landfill waste.
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The steps outlined are part of a broader waste management initiative aligned with global best practices that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and reform the city’s waste infrastructure.
Waste-to-Energy Power Plant: Converting Waste into Clean Electricity
Lagos is also making strides with its Waste-to-Energy (WTE) project in Epe, set to process 2,500 tonnes of municipal solid waste daily, significantly reducing dependence on landfills. This initiative will generate 60-80 megawatts of clean electricity for the Lagos power grid and tackle methane emissions while creating thousands of green jobs in the waste-to-energy sector.
In line with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment made at COP28, the state government is partnering with C40Cities to upgrade the Ikosi-Ketu Biogas Plant at Ketu Fruit Market to produce biomethane from organic waste. Slated for launch in May 2025, this plant will supply electricity for market lighting and food storage, with plans to replicate this model across other markets and communities in Lagos.
Advancing Circular Economy and Waste Processing Innovations
Further reinforcing that “Lagos is not dirty,” the state is transitioning away from a linear “collect-and-dump” waste management model to a sustainable circular economy. Key actions taken include:
- The ban on Styrofoam and single-use plastics, crucial in combating plastic pollution, which contributes to urban flooding and clogged drains.
- A phased elimination of single-use plastics set to commence in January 2025, coupled with promotion of sustainable alternatives and extended producer responsibility (EPR) for manufacturers.
These efforts have led to cleaner drainage systems and a notable reduction in flooding across various areas of the city.
The ongoing initiatives underscore the commitment of the Lagos State Government to drive progressive change, affirming that Lagos is not dirty, and a cleaner, greener future is on the horizon.
With these initiatives, it is clear that each resident has a role to play in fostering a cleaner Lagos. As the city continues to evolve, the collaborative efforts of the government and citizens will undoubtedly lead to a brighter and cleaner future for all.
