The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has adopted an unusual approach to keeping Lagos clean, combining arrests of illegal street traders with large-scale cleaning operations across parts of the state.
The agency arrested 13 people during enforcement operations in Festac, Mile 2 and other locations, including Ikorodu, on Monday and Tuesday.
The operations were carried out by LAWMA’s Project WISE team alongside officials of Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) and other security personnel.
LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said roads, walkways, medians and road setbacks must remain free from activities that obstruct their intended use.
“Public roads and walkways must remain clear and accessible.
"We will sustain enforcement against unauthorised trading.
"We urge traders and residents to use approved markets,” he said.
The agency said illegal street trading contributes to indiscriminate waste disposal, blocks public access and creates environmental problems.
It warned that those arrested would face further processing and possible prosecution under Lagos State environmental laws.
In a related operation, LAWMA began a deep-cleaning exercise along Ago Palace Way, deploying 38 sweepers to each of the road’s first and second phases.
The workers are removing litter, silt and debris from road verges and medians following an enforcement and demolition exercise.
The cleaning operation followed a visit by Gbadegesin to the area on Sunday.
LAWMA said the exercise would continue until the entire stretch was clean and cleared of debris.
The agency urged traders to operate only in approved locations and called on residents to cooperate with enforcement and cleaning teams.
The latest operation follows other efforts by LAWMA to clear unauthorised trading areas and remove waste from public spaces. The agency says sustained enforcement and proper waste disposal are necessary to maintain a cleaner and healthier Lagos.
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