Lagos, Aug. 27, 2025 (NAN) The Lagos State Government has re-affirmed commitment to advancing sustainable waste management practices with the successful hosting of a one-day stakeholders’ forum on construction, demolition and disaster waste management.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which held at Ikoyi on Tuesday, was organised by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) in collaboration with Wastecare Solutions Ltd.
The forum brought together stakeholders from the construction and environment sectors to explore strategies for tackling the increasing volume of waste from building activities and disaster incidents.
The forum had the theme:  “Building Responsibly and Driving Efficiency: Strengthening Stakeholder Collaboration in Construction, Demolition and Disaster Waste Management in Lagos State”.
It underscored the importance of responsible building practices in line with global circular economy principles.
Delivering the keynote address, the state Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, said the forum was designed to generate innovative ideas that would promote environmental sustainability, public safety and livability in Lagos.
Wahab was represented by a director in the ministry, Mr Adeoye Babajide.
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.
” Lagos cannot afford to be submerged in unmanaged waste.”
He said that LAWMA had gone beyond traditional collection and disposal systems by promoting waste reduction, recycling and re-use.
 He urged stakeholders in the construction sector to strictly comply with government regulations on waste handling and disposal, warning that defaulters would risk penalties, including site closures.
In his remarks, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, emphasised the role of partnerships in achieving a sustainable environment.
Gbadegesin was represented by Executive Director, LAWMA, Mr Kunle Adebiyi,
“Lagos thrives on collaboration and partnerships.
“This has been the foundation of our progress, and even the THEMES Plus Agenda guiding this administration is built entirely on the principle of working together,” he said.
In his presentation, the guest speaker, Dr Tijani Ajibola, highlighted the critical role of responsible waste management in reducing air pollution, protecting the environment and safeguarding future generations.
He spoke on “Bridging the Gap between Policy and Practice: Strengthening Compliance in Construction and Demolition Waste Management”.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Traditional Ruler of Iru Land, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal; the Resident Consultant, Architect Nigeria, Mrs Ekaete Bassey; and Mr Ogunba Abiola of Lagos State Wastewater Management.
NAN reports that the forum also featured interactive technical sessions where panelists shared practical strategies to strengthen waste management practices in Lagos State. (NAN)
