Group seeks collaboration to tackle waste management challenges

The Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN) has called for collaboration with residents for effective waste management in the country.

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The National President, AWAMN, Mr Olugbenga Adebola, made the call in an interview with the Newsmen on Monday in Lagos.

Adebola was reacting to a report that some residents prefer cart pushers over the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators.

He described the patronage of cart pushers as illegal stressing that it undermines proper waste management efforts.

Adebola highlighted the importance of waste segregation, sorting, and treatment to prevent environmental and health hazards.

“Waste management is not solely a government-provided service but operates under the “Polluter Pay Principle,” which requires residents to pay for waste collection,” he said.

He added that the principle had been in place in Lagos since 1997.

Adebola noted that unpaid bills by residents, poor road access, and economic hardship had impacted waste collection efforts.

He urged residents to promptly pay for PSP services to ensure consistent waste collection.

Adebola discouraged tenements from using illegal cart pushers, who often dump waste indiscriminately.

He lamented the high cost of waste collection equipment.

Adebola said that compactors cost up to N270 million when sourced from Europe.

He added that high operational expenses, including high cost of fuel was affecting the PSP operators.

“Despite these challenges, operators remain committed to providing door-to-door waste collection services,” Adebola said.

He encouraged residents to report any lapses in PSP services.

Adebola disclosed the imminent launch of enforcement initiatives such as “Operation Show Your Receipt” to ensure compliance.

He stressed the need for collective responsibility in maintaining a clean environment to prevent diseases and urged Lagosians to prioritise proper waste disposal practices.

NAN/Wumi