The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has urged residents of Lagos State to adopt responsible waste disposal practices, disclosing that the agency prosecuted 400 cases of environmental infractions in 2025.

The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, made this known on Saturday while speaking on Sunrise Daily, a programme aired on Channels Television.

Gbadegesin stressed that proper waste handling is critical to achieving a cleaner, more liveable and sustainable city, particularly in a rapidly urbanising environment such as Lagos.

He said LAWMA has sustained waste evacuation and management operations across the state, noting that the Authority is strengthening routine waste collection services while persistently clearing identified flashpoints caused by indiscriminate dumping and poor waste handling.

According to him, indiscriminate dumping continues to undermine progress in the waste management sector, necessitating intensified intervention efforts by the Authority.

The LAWMA boss emphasised the need for residents to adopt basic waste sorting practices, explaining that separating recyclable materials from general waste would improve collection efficiency, promote recycling activities, and reduce pressure on landfill sites.

He also highlighted LAWMA’s growing focus on recycling, noting that waste should be regarded as a resource with economic value rather than mere refuse. He added that recycling initiatives could generate employment opportunities, encourage private sector participation, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

Gbadegesin further advocated the adoption of a circular economy approach to waste management, where materials are recovered, reused, and recycled, as opposed to the traditional linear system of collection and disposal.

On enforcement, he disclosed that LAWMA prosecuted 400 cases of environmental infractions in 2025, citing a recent case in which an individual apprehended for indiscriminate dumping is currently serving a jail term.

He called on residents to support LAWMA’s enforcement efforts by refraining from indiscriminate dumping and promptly reporting environmental violations, noting that public cooperation remains essential to maintaining cleanliness and order across the state.

Gbadegesin reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to working with relevant stakeholders to strengthen waste management systems and promote a cleaner, healthier, and more resilient Lagos State.