Lagos Waste Disposal Crisis Worsens Under Sanwo-Olu

The waste disposal situation in Lagos has become a significant issue during Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu's tenure, particularly as the Sallah festival approaches, which typically generates surplus waste. The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has struggled with refuse collection, leading to visual blight and health concerns.

The privatization of waste management initiated by former Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the early 2000s aimed to improve services but has faced setbacks, particularly during the tenures of his successors. The return to a privatized model under Sanwo-Olu has not resolved the ongoing refuse collection crisis, with households experiencing delays and inefficiencies.

The article notes that the current waste management system has been ineffective, with reports of unauthorized waste collection practices and environmental degradation. The historical context of waste management in Lagos, including the establishment of LAWMA in 1991 and subsequent reforms, is crucial to understanding the current challenges.