The Lagos government has reaffirmed its 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 event, which was held at Ikoyi on Tuesday, was organised by the Lagos Waste Management Authority in collaboration with Wastecare Solutions Ltd.

The forum brought together stakeholders from the construction and environmental sectors to explore strategies for addressing the growing volume of waste generated by building activities and disaster incidents.

It underscored the importance of responsible building practices in line with global principles of the circular economy.

Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, stated that the forum was designed to generate innovative ideas that would promote environmental sustainability, public safety, and livability in Lagos.

Mr Wahab was represented by a director in the ministry, 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.

LAWMA CEO Muyiwa Gbadegesin restated the role of partnerships in achieving a sustainable environment.

Mr Gbadegesin said, “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.”

Tijani Ajibola, the guest speaker, 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’.

(NAN)