The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) is set to revolutionize waste management in Lagos State with cutting-edge recycling and waste-to-energy initiatives. According to LAWMA Managing Director/CEO Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the agency’s goal is to transition from traditional waste disposal to a modern circular economy that generates economic value, reduces waste, and creates jobs.
Speaking during a radio interview hosted by the Lateef Jakande Leadership Academy on Eko FM, Dr. Gbadegesin revealed that LAWMA plans to establish a waste-to-energy plant in Epe and convert the Olusosun and Solus-3 landfills into advanced material recovery facilities.
“The war on waste is about changing the mindset of Lagos residents,” he explained. “Waste is not just trash—it’s a resource. Plastics, paper, aluminum, and even textiles can be recycled into valuable materials. Currently, less than 10% of waste in Lagos is recycled, even with scavengers at landfills. With the city’s growing population, recycling offers immense potential for creating economic value and job opportunities while fostering sustainability.”
Highlighting LAWMA’s innovative waste-to-energy project, Dr. Gbadegesin disclosed that the forthcoming Epe facility will process 2,500 tons of waste daily, generating 60 to 80 megawatts of electricity. This energy will power major industrial hubs, including the Free Trade Zone, the deep-sea port, and the Dangote Refinery.
“In the next 18 months, we will also establish facilities at Ojota and Igando to separate waste into valuable fractions like organic materials and metals. These efforts will ensure that waste is no longer buried in landfills but transformed into resources that drive economic growth and create jobs,” he added.
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Dr. Gbadegesin also spotlighted LAWMA Academy, the educational arm of the agency, as a critical tool for instilling environmental consciousness in young people. Established three years ago, the academy has trained numerous environmental ambassadors in primary and secondary schools across Lagos State.
Additionally, he commended the success of the Adopt-a-Bin initiative, which encourages residents to separate their waste at the source and ensures proper containerization. With over 400 PSP operators actively collecting household waste, the Lagos State Government plans to boost efficiency by adding more CNG-powered trucks to the fleet.
The LAWMA boss emphasized that achieving a cleaner and more sustainable Lagos requires collective responsibility. “We urge residents to support LAWMA’s initiatives and adopt environmentally friendly waste management practices. Together, we can build a cleaner, greener Lagos,” Dr. Gbadegesin said.
