The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening sustainable waste management practices with the organisation of a one-day stakeholders’ forum on construction, demolition and disaster waste (CDDW) management.
The event, held recently in Ikoyi, Lagos, was organised by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), in conjunction with Wastecare Solutions Ltd, bringing together key players in the construction and environment sectors, to discuss strategies for managing the rising volume of waste generated from building activities and disaster incidents.
The theme of the event is “Building Responsibly and Driving Efficiency: Strengthening Stakeholder Collaboration in Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management in Lagos State”
Delivering the keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, represented by Mr. Adeoye Babajide, said the forum was designed to harness ideas that would enhance environmental sustainability, safety, and livability.
Wahab noted that the global shift towards circular economy principles required deliberate efforts to minimise waste, maximise resource utilisation, and ensure recycling and reuse, stressing that Lagos, with its growing population and human activities, could not afford to be submerged in unmanaged waste.
He said, “The theme is critical, timely and a calculated step aimed at harnessing approaches to construction and demolition waste management, focusing on sustainability and environmental safety”.
He explained that the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) had moved beyond conventional collection and disposal methods by promoting responsible building practices that emphasised reduction, reuse, and recycling.
The Commissioner charged stakeholders in the construction sector to adhere strictly to government regulations on waste handling, recycling, and disposal, warning that non-compliance could result in penalties, including the sealing of project sites.
“The essence of compliance is to ensure environmental responsibility, conserve resources and avoid sanctions. Our aim is not punishment, but safeguarding the environment and protecting public health,” Wahab said.
Earlier in his welcome, the Managing Director/CEO of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, represented by the Executive Director, Mr. Kunle Adebiyi, gave an overview of the programme and what informed the decision to organise it, stressing that partnership was key in achieving the goal of establishing a sustainable environment.
According to him, “Lagos thrives on collaboration and partnerships. This has been the foundation of our progress, and even the THEMES Plus Agenda, which guides the current administration, is built entirely on the principle of working together. Through partnerships and coordinated efforts, we can achieve sustainable development and better outcomes for our communities”.
The Guest Speaker, Dr. Tijani Ajibola, in his presentation titled, “Bridging the Gap between Policy and Practice: Strengthening the Compliance in Construction and Demolition Waste Management”, walked participants through the processes involved in construction, demolition, and disaster waste management, stressing that the world is a shared and valuable space, which must must be preserved responsibly, for the benefit of future generations.
He highlighted that CDDW contributed significantly to air pollution, stressing that responsible management at every stage, from planning and construction to disposal and recycling, was crucial to minimising environmental impact and ensuring a safe, sustainable, and livable environment for all.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Oba of Iru Land, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, represented by Chief Adebayo, Alawe of Oniru Kingdom; Architect Ekaete Bassey, Resident Consultant, Architect Nigeria; Ogunba Abiola, representative of Lagos State Wastewater Management; Sheriff Daramola, President, International Facility Management Association, Nigeria Chapter, and representatives of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing, as well as the Lagos State Physical Planning Permit Authority.
The event also featured technical sessions where panellists exchanged ideas and actionable strategies to strengthen waste management practices in the state.