The Lagos State Government has assured residents that it is taking urgent steps to address the recent accumulation of refuse in several parts of the state, saying Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered an immediate expansion of waste evacuation operations.
The assurance comes after growing concerns from residents over overflowing waste bins and uncollected refuse in some communities, with many calling for faster intervention to protect public health and improve environmental conditions.
In a statement issued by the state government, officials acknowledged the inconvenience caused by the situation and said efforts are already underway to restore normal waste collection services across affected areas.
According to the government, Governor Sanwo-Olu has directed environmental agencies and waste management service providers to intensify operations by working around the clock to clear existing waste backlogs.
The administration disclosed that additional personnel, equipment and operational resources have been deployed to strengthen waste collection and improve disposal efficiency across the state.
The Governor also instructed the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) and other relevant agencies to increase their response efforts until normalcy is fully restored.
Officials noted that Lagos, one of Africa’s fastest-growing megacities, generates an estimated 13,000 metric tons of waste every day. They explained that while operational challenges may occasionally arise due to the scale of waste generated, the government remains committed to ensuring effective waste management across the state.
The government said noticeable progress has already been recorded in some locations, adding that residents should expect further improvements in the coming days as evacuation teams continue their operations.
Over the years, the Sanwo-Olu administration has invested in waste management infrastructure, environmental sustainability projects and urban renewal initiatives aimed at creating a cleaner and healthier Lagos. Authorities said those investments will continue as part of long-term plans to strengthen the state’s waste management system.
Residents were also urged to support government efforts by disposing of refuse responsibly, avoiding indiscriminate dumping of waste and ensuring drainage channels, roads and designated waste collection points remain free from obstruction.
The state government reiterated its commitment to protecting public health and maintaining environmental standards, assuring Lagosians that the current refuse accumulation is being treated as a priority.
Officials expressed confidence that the ongoing interventions will not only resolve the immediate challenge but also improve the long-term resilience of Lagos’ waste management system.
As cleanup operations continue across different parts of the state, residents are expected to see increased waste evacuation activities in the days ahead.
