The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has stepped up enforcement against illegal street trading in parts of Lagos, dislodging traders occupying road corridors and other unauthorised spaces. This operation, conducted in collaboration with the Kick Against Indiscipline, KAI, targeted areas around Tafawa Balewa Square, TBS, and the Costain Under Bridge/National Theatre axis. These locations had been occupied by traders, obstructing pedestrian and vehicular movement.
The enforcement exercise was part of LAWMA's ongoing efforts to protect public spaces, improve environmental conditions, and ensure roads and walkways serve their designated purposes. According to LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, unauthorised occupation of pedestrian walkways and road corridors by traders disrupts the proper use of public spaces and contributes to environmental nuisance.
Dr Gbadegesin cautioned traders against returning to the cleared areas, urging them to conduct their businesses only at designated and approved trading locations. He stressed that keeping public spaces orderly would require sustained compliance with environmental regulations and continuous enforcement by relevant government agencies. LAWMA will continue to work with relevant government agencies to address activities that undermine environmental standards and public order.
The latest enforcement comes amid efforts by LAWMA to keep major Lagos corridors cleaner and accessible, particularly in areas experiencing heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic. The authority said the exercise formed part of its wider enforcement programme aimed at preserving environmental standards and safeguarding public spaces across Lagos.
Dr Gbadegesin called on residents and other stakeholders to cooperate with enforcement agencies by adhering to established regulations and avoiding activities that obstruct public spaces or contribute to environmental degradation. He further disclosed that LAWMA would maintain surveillance of the affected areas to prevent traders from returning to the cleared locations and ensure continued compliance.
The enforcement exercise is part of LAWMA's efforts to address the issue of illegal trading in Lagos. The authority has been working to keep public spaces free from obstruction and environmental nuisance. The exercise also highlights the importance of collaboration between government agencies and stakeholders in maintaining environmental standards.
The Lagos government has been taking steps to address the issue of illegal trading and environmental degradation in the state. The enforcement exercise by LAWMA is a testament to the government's commitment to maintaining environmental standards and protecting public spaces. The authority's efforts are expected to have a positive impact on the environment and the overall well-being of residents in Lagos.
Key points
- LAWMA dislodges traders occupying road corridors and unauthorised spaces in Lagos.
- The enforcement exercise aims to protect public spaces, improve environmental conditions, and ensure roads and walkways serve their designated purposes.
- LAWMA will maintain surveillance of the affected areas to prevent traders from returning to the cleared locations and ensure continued compliance.
