By Energy Worth
In a decisive move to modernize waste management and promote environmental sustainability, the Lagos State Government has unveiled plans to phase out outdated dumpsites and upgrade waste disposal systems across the state.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced this on Wednesday via a post on X (formerly Twitter), following a strategic meeting with all 57 Local Government and Local Council Development Area (LCDA) chairmen.
Wahab explained that the initiative is part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision for a cleaner, greener, and flood-free Lagos, driven by improved coordination between state and local authorities.
“We are decommissioning old landfills like Olusosun and Solous 3 that have outlived their usefulness, while strengthening the capacity of efficient ones like Epe to serve the people better,” Wahab said.
The high-level meeting, held at the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, was attended by key government officials including the Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi; Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Bolaji Roberts; Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; and Special Adviser on the Environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu, among others.
According to Wahab, the discussions centered on deepening collaboration between the state and local councils to enhance flood control, improve sanitation, and ensure community compliance with environmental laws.
“Environmental management begins at the grassroots. Every council must take ownership of waste collection, community sensitisation, and enforcement. Together, we can transform Lagos into a model of urban cleanliness and sustainability,” he said.
The commissioner also reiterated that the ban on street trading remains in force and called on council chairmen to intensify enforcement against indiscriminate dumping and other environmental offences.
Highlighting the government’s investments in modern drainage and flood control infrastructure, Wahab urged local councils to replicate these efforts within their communities.
“The State Government is leading by example through major drainage and flood-control projects. We expect our local governments to align with this vision and take proactive steps in their jurisdictions,” he noted.
He stressed that the state’s waste management reforms reflect a collective commitment to building a resilient, livable, and sustainable Lagos.
“Environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility. The State Government will continue to lead from the front, but meaningful progress depends on everyone playing their part,” Wahab added.
With these bold reforms, Lagos State reaffirms its position as a pacesetter in urban environmental governance, demonstrating strong leadership in building a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable megacity.
