Enhanced Waste Management in FESTAC Town: A Testament to LAWMA’s Effectiveness
FESTAC Town, a residential area in Lagos State, has witnessed a significant transformation in waste management, thanks to the concerted efforts of the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA). Residents have expressed their satisfaction with LAWMA’s services, highlighting the remarkable improvements compared to previous waste disposal methods. Before LAWMA’s consistent presence, the community primarily relied on informal waste collectors, known as Abokis, for waste disposal. This system, however, proved to be inconsistent and often resulted in indiscriminate dumping and environmental pollution. LAWMA’s intervention has brought about a much-needed change, introducing a structured and efficient waste collection system that has earned the commendation of FESTAC residents.
The regularity of LAWMA’s waste collection services is a key factor in their success. Residents have lauded the scheduled pick-ups every Thursday, and occasionally on Sundays, which has instilled confidence in the community that their waste will be collected promptly. This predictability has significantly curbed the previously prevalent practice of indiscriminate dumping, leading to a cleaner and healthier environment. The scheduled collections have eliminated the uncertainty associated with the availability of informal waste collectors, ensuring a consistent and reliable waste disposal system. This reliability has fostered a sense of responsibility among residents, encouraging proper waste disposal practices and contributing to the overall improvement of the environment.
Another significant advantage of LAWMA’s services is their affordability. Residents have noted that LAWMA offers a more cost-effective solution compared to the informal waste collectors. While the Abokis often charge varying and sometimes exorbitant fees, LAWMA provides a standardized and transparent pricing structure. This predictability in pricing has allowed residents to budget effectively for waste disposal, making the service accessible to a wider range of households. The affordability of LAWMA’s services has removed the financial burden associated with waste disposal, further encouraging residents to utilize the formal waste management system.
The testimonials from FESTAC residents underscore the positive impact of LAWMA’s services. Mrs. Grace Momodu, a resident of 5th Avenue, emphasized the budgetary advantage of LAWMA, explaining that their fixed monthly fee of ₦1,000 is more manageable than the unpredictable charges of the Abokis, which can reach up to ₦1,000 per pick-up. Mrs. Eniola Omotola of 22 Road echoed this sentiment, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of LAWMA’s fixed monthly fee regardless of the volume of waste, unlike the Abokis who charge based on the quantity. These personal accounts demonstrate the tangible benefits of LAWMA’s services, making it a preferred choice for many residents.
Mr. Emmanuel James, another resident, emphasized the convenience and broader coverage offered by LAWMA. He pointed out the unreliability of the Abokis, who might not always be available when needed, in contrast to LAWMA’s consistent and predictable schedule. Furthermore, LAWMA’s ability to collect waste from entire closes surpasses the limited capacity of the Abokis, who often struggle to handle the waste from even a single close. This comprehensive coverage ensures that waste is collected efficiently from all parts of the community, preventing localized build-up and promoting a uniformly clean environment.
While the overall sentiment towards LAWMA is positive, there is also room for further improvement. Ms. Blessed-Gift Nwaruh of 3rd Avenue acknowledged the significant progress LAWMA has made in cleaning up the area, with waste now being collected earlier than before. However, she also suggested that more can be done to achieve an even cleaner environment and restore FESTAC Town to its former glory. This feedback highlights the ongoing need for continuous improvement and emphasizes the importance of community engagement in achieving optimal waste management practices. LAWMA’s responsiveness to such feedback will be crucial in maintaining the positive momentum and ensuring the long-term sustainability of their efforts.
