In a recent interview, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), addressed concerns regarding the increasing waste problem in Lagos, Nigeria. He attributed the mounting waste to the city's rapid population growth, which is estimated to be between 20 and 27 million people. This explosive growth results in the daily generation of 13,000 to 15,000 tonnes of waste, which poses significant challenges for effective waste management. Gbadegesin emphasized that a strong infrastructure is essential for managing such a vast volume of waste.

Moreover, the waste management system in Lagos is complex and requires coordination across various levels. According to Gbadegesin, effective waste management begins at the household level, where residents are expected to utilize appropriate bins and containers. He pointed out that for the system to function effectively, there must be sufficient compactor trucks to evacuate waste from these households. The comment underscores the critical need for both community engagement and infrastructure development to ensure that waste management in Lagos can keep pace with its population growth.

Looking ahead, Gbadegesin also highlighted that LAWMA is exploring innovative solutions, including transitioning to waste-to-energy systems. This forward-thinking approach aims to not only alleviate the waste accumulation problem but also to harness waste as a resource for energy production. The implications of such initiatives could drastically change waste management in Lagos, making it more sustainable and efficient in the long term.