The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to advancing sustainable waste management practices following the successful hosting of a one-day stakeholders’ forum on construction, demolition, and disaster waste management.
The event, held on Tuesday in Ikoyi, was organised by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) in partnership with Wastecare Solutions Ltd. It brought together experts and stakeholders from the construction and environmental sectors to discuss strategies for tackling the growing challenge of waste generated from building projects and disaster-related incidents.
With the theme “Building Responsibly and Driving Efficiency: Strengthening Stakeholder Collaboration in Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management in Lagos State,” the forum emphasized the need for responsible building practices aligned with global circular economy standards.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, represented by Mr. Adeoye Babajide, said the forum was aimed at generating innovative ideas to enhance sustainability, public safety, and livability in Lagos.
He noted that the theme was both timely and essential, stressing that construction and demolition waste management must prioritise sustainability and environmental protection. “Lagos cannot afford to be overwhelmed by unmanaged waste,” Wahab said.
He further explained that LAWMA had moved beyond conventional waste collection and disposal by embracing waste reduction, recycling, and reuse. He called on stakeholders in the construction sector to comply with waste handling regulations, warning that violators risk sanctions, including site closures.
Also speaking, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by Executive Director Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, stressed that partnerships and collaboration remain central to the state’s progress. He noted that the THEMES Plus Agenda of the administration is rooted in collective action.
The guest speaker, Dr. Tijani Ajibola, in his presentation on “Bridging the Gap between Policy and Practice: Strengthening Compliance in Construction and Demolition Waste Management,” highlighted the role of responsible waste practices in curbing air pollution, safeguarding the environment, and protecting future generations.
In his goodwill address, the Oniru of Iru Land, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, urged professionals in the building sector to embrace global best practices to ensure a safer and cleaner Lagos. Similarly, Architect Nigeria’s resident consultant, Mrs. Ekaete Bassey, called for stronger enforcement of waste management policies, while Mr. Ogunba Abiola of the Lagos State Wastewater Management Office emphasised the importance of synergy among regulators, contractors, and the public.
The forum concluded with a consensus among stakeholders on the need for continuous dialogue, enforcement of environmental laws, and the adoption of innovative technologies to manage construction and demolition waste effectively. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting government policies aimed at building a sustainable and environmentally responsible Lagos.