LAWMA to Lease Compactor Trucks to PSP Operators to Improve Waste Collection in Lagos
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has unveiled plans to procure compactor trucks and lease them to Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators. This initiative is aimed at enhancing waste collection services and ensuring a cleaner Lagos.
LAWMA’s Managing Director/CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, disclosed this development in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday, emphasising that the program is designed to mitigate operational challenges exacerbated by economic pressures and rising costs.
Addressing Economic Challenges in Waste Management
Gbadegesin explained that while the Lagos State Government provides monthly subsidies to PSP operators, the volatility of the foreign exchange market and soaring diesel prices have significantly impacted their operational efficiency.
“Unfortunately, because of the economic situation, volatility in the foreign exchange market, and increasing cost of diesel, a lot of the PSP operators are struggling,” he said.
To address these challenges, LAWMA is implementing an intervention program that will introduce compactor trucks, making them available to PSP operators on a lease basis. The initiative is expected to bridge existing gaps in waste collection and enhance overall service delivery.
Strengthening Waste Management Infrastructure
LAWMA currently manages waste collection across Lagos in partnership with 428 PSP operators. Together, they service 40 waste collection routes at least twice or thrice daily. However, the state’s rapidly growing population continues to put immense pressure on the existing waste disposal infrastructure.
Recognising this challenge, Gbadegesin underscored the need for more efficient waste management solutions. He urged residents to desist from indiscriminate waste dumping and emphasised community cooperation as a crucial factor in maintaining a clean and sustainable environment.
Circular Economy: A Path to Economic Growth
Beyond the leasing of compactor trucks, LAWMA has also highlighted the economic potential of transitioning to a circular economy. The agency estimates that Lagos could generate up to $2.5 billion annually by prioritising recycling and reuse over traditional waste disposal methods.
Currently, Lagos disposes of approximately 13,000 tonnes of waste daily in landfills. However, LAWMA projects that a circular economy approach could divert up to 10,000 tonnes of waste per day into productive use, unlocking significant economic and environmental benefits.
To facilitate this shift, LAWMA is promoting waste sorting at the source and establishing community recycling centres. These hubs will enable residents to exchange recyclable materials, such as PET bottles, paper, metals, and food waste, for incentives, fostering a more sustainable and efficient waste management system.
With the introduction of the compactor truck leasing scheme and the promotion of recycling initiatives, LAWMA aims to improve waste management services, ease operational difficulties for PSP operators, and create a cleaner, more sustainable Lagos. The success of these initiatives will largely depend on collaboration between the government, the private sector, and residents in adopting responsible waste disposal and recycling practices.
