The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) Trucks
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) is set to enhance waste collection efficiency and environmental sustainability with the introduction of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) compactors.
Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director of LAWMA, announced this development during an interview on Monday, February 24, 2025, in Lagos. According to him, the move aligns with the agency’s commitment to modernizing waste management infrastructure across the state.
Gbadegesin revealed that the newly introduced CNG compactors are eco-friendly and cost-effective, significantly reducing carbon emissions compared to diesel-powered alternatives.
“This year, we will be bringing in 100 compactors, and by next year, we will double that number. Over the next five years, our vision is to completely upgrade the waste collection fleet in Lagos,” he stated.
Additionally, he noted that these trucks could also run on biogas derived from organic waste, both liquid and solid, further promoting sustainable waste management practices.
LAWMA has partnered with the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and the Swedish Government to conduct a feasibility study on waste-to-energy initiatives. The study revealed that a significant portion of Lagos’ organic and water waste could be converted into biogas to power both LAWMA and LAMATA fleets.
As part of this initiative, LAMATA plans to introduce approximately 2,000 CNG/biogas-powered vehicles by the next quarter.
Read also: LAWMA Cracks Down on Illegal Recycling and Scavenging, Issues Final Warning
Empowering Private Sector Operators
Gbadegesin emphasized that the new waste management infrastructure would be made available to Private Sector Partnership (PSP) operators, who play a vital role in household waste collection.
“When I talk about upgrading waste management infrastructure, I also mean the introduction of transfer loading stations,” he explained.
LAWMA is also reviving existing transfer loading stations and constructing new ones in collaboration with Zoomlion Nigeria. Zoomlion is investing in the development of modern material recovery facilities (MRFs), which will serve as an alternative to traditional landfills.
“MRFs allow us to separate waste into valuable streams, including organic matter for compost or biogas production, metals, plastics, and textile waste,” Gbadegesin said.
Transforming Waste into Wealth
Gbadegesin highlighted that 95% of disposed materials could be repurposed, creating employment opportunities and economic benefits for Lagos residents.
“This initiative is about turning waste into wealth. It’s not waste unless you waste it,” he concluded.
With these strategic upgrades, LAWMA is taking bold steps toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Lagos.
