Lagos Faces Waste Crisis, Echoes Jakande's Governance Legacy

Lagos is currently experiencing a significant waste management crisis, characterized by the proliferation of indiscriminate waste dumps throughout the metropolis. Areas such as Badagry, Mile 2, Orile, Iyana Iba, Egbeda, Oshodi, and Agbado-Ijaye are heavily affected, with roads, medians, and drainage channels filled with refuse.

Even relatively cleaner areas like Lekki and Victoria Island are in need of urgent maintenance. The article questions the effectiveness of local governments in managing waste and reflects on the governance of Alhaji Lateef Jakande, who served as governor of Lagos State from 1979 to 1983.

During his administration, Jakande implemented significant improvements in public education and healthcare, constructing numerous schools and hospitals to meet the needs of a rapidly growing population. The current state of neglect raises concerns about the management and oversight of Lagos State's environmental and infrastructural challenges.