LAWMA explains factors behind successful statewide sanitation exercise in Lagos
Lagos Waste Management Authority LAWMA
What drove the success of the exercise according to LAWMA
*Strong inter-agency coordination:* Seamless collaboration between LAWMA, PSP operators, local governments, and enforcement agencies ensured effective statewide coverage.
*Early operational planning:* Pre-sanitation planning and strategic deployment of trucks, equipment, and personnel enabled smooth execution.
*Preparation of disposal infrastructure:* Landfill sites and Transfer Loading Stations (TLS) were optimised and prepared ahead of the exercise to ensure seamless waste reception and turnaround during evacuation.
*Mass mobilisation and advocacy:* Intensive sensitisation campaigns drove high public participation and compliance.
*Decentralised execution:* Active involvement of LGAs/LCDAs and community leaders ensured grassroots ownership and wider reach.
*Targeted interventions:* Focus on blackspots, markets, highways, and inner communities delivered visible environmental impact.
*Enhanced monitoring:* Real-time supervision and field coordination ensured prompt response and operational efficiency.
*Response to claims on non-evacuation of waste*
*Evacuation is structured, not instantaneous:* Waste generated during sanitation exercises is evacuated systematically based on operational scheduling and logistics.
*Volume requires phased evacuation:* The quantity of waste generated statewide could not be cleared instantly; evacuation was ongoing in phases.
*PSP operators were fully deployed:* Licensed PSP operators commenced evacuation immediately after the exercise across all jurisdictions.
*Prepared disposal chain:* With landfill sites and TLS already optimised, waste evacuation is being processed through a structured and coordinated system.
*Focus on proper disposal, not rushed clearance:* LAWMA prioritises safe and regulated evacuation to approved facilities rather than indiscriminate disposal.
*Field verification confirms operations:* Reports across LGAs indicate that evacuation commenced immediately after the exercise and is ongoing.
*Delibrate Misinformation on social media:* Claims suggesting non-evacuation are inaccurate and do not reflect the operational realities on ground.
*Continuous monitoring and intervention:* LAWMA is actively supervising PSP activities and deploying additional support where necessary.
LAWMA remains committed to sustaining the gains of the exercise through continuous evacuation, enforcement, and public engagement.
Residents are encouraged to support ongoing efforts by adhering to proper waste disposal practices.
