The Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA) has issued a warning to industries operating in the state against burning waste and indiscriminately dumping industrial waste in public spaces. This warning was given by the Special Adviser and Managing Director of OGWAMA, Farouk Akintunde, at the 3rd Annual Workshop on Industrial Waste Management held in Abeokuta, the state capital. The workshop focused on encouraging industries to adopt sustainable practices that turn waste into useful resources.
Akintunde emphasized that industries must properly declare their waste volumes and desist from practices that violate the state’s environmental regulations. He noted that waste burning, indiscriminate dumping, and operating illegal dumpsites contravene the provisions of the OGWAMA Law 2020, particularly Section 27. Industries found violating the law will face appropriate sanctions. Instead, Akintunde urged industries to comply with the state’s industrial waste management laws and seek assistance from OGWAMA when faced with waste management challenges.
The workshop, themed “Beyond Compliance: Embedding Circular Economy Principles and Innovations into Industrial Waste Management in Ogun State,” aimed to promote value creation by encouraging industries to transform materials previously regarded as waste into useful resources. Akintunde stated that OGWAMA is ready to partner with industries in developing sustainable solutions to waste management challenges and promoting innovation across the sector.
OGWAMA has undertaken several initiatives to strengthen its operations, including the refurbishment of moribund compactors and the acquisition of new ones for improved waste management services across the state. Akintunde encouraged industries to adopt circular economy principles, which can reduce waste generation, improve production efficiency, and create additional revenue opportunities for businesses.
Describing Ogun as Nigeria’s industrial capital, Akintunde stressed the need for collective action among government agencies, industries, and other stakeholders to develop sustainable waste management practices in the state. He reaffirmed OGWAMA’s commitment to working with industries to promote circular economy principles and innovative approaches to industrial waste management.
Akintunde also mentioned that OGWAMA had addressed outstanding commercial and industrial waste payments owed to Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators before his assumption of office. He ensured that subsequent obligations are being paid promptly, demonstrating OGWAMA’s commitment to effective waste management.
The Ogun State government, through OGWAMA, is taking proactive steps to manage industrial waste effectively. By promoting sustainable practices and encouraging industries to adopt circular economy principles, the state aims to reduce waste generation and create a healthier environment for its citizens.
Key points
- OGWAMA warns industries against waste burning and indiscriminate dumping.
- Industries are urged to adopt circular economy principles to reduce waste generation and improve production efficiency.
- OGWAMA is committed to partnering with industries to develop sustainable waste management solutions.
