LAWMA Urges Lagos Residents to Report Illegal Waste Dumping, Releases Toll-Free Numbers

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has urged residents to report illegal waste dumping across the state, warning that the practice contributes to flooding, blocked drainage systems and the spread of diseases.

The authority made the appeal in a public advisory shared on its official X account on Friday, calling for greater public participation in efforts to keep Lagos clean and protect community health.

“A cleaner Lagos starts with all of us,” LAWMA stated, urging residents who witness illegal dumping to report incidents through its official channels. It advised the public to provide the location and other relevant details to help officials respond promptly.

Residents can report cases through the authority’s toll-free lines, 08000052962 (080000LAWMA) and 07080601020. LAWMA also encouraged callers to provide the time of the incident and, where possible, supporting evidence such as photographs or descriptions of vehicles involved.

The latest appeal comes amid ongoing efforts to curb environmental violations across Lagos. LAWMA’s 2025 Waste Surveillance Statistics recorded 1,023 cases of illegal dumping and waste management non-compliance during the year. Of these, 447 cases were referred for legal action, according to the figures cited in the report.

The statistics also indicated that illegal dumping was most common between midnight and the early hours of the morning. Residential refuse, construction debris and hazardous waste were among the materials frequently discarded unlawfully.

LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has repeatedly advised residents to engage registered Private Sector Participation operators for waste collection. He has also warned against dumping refuse in drains, road medians and open spaces, where it can worsen sanitation problems and obstruct water flow during rainfall.

The authority said reports from residents help officials identify illegal dumping hotspots and take action against offenders. Residents seeking assistance or making service-related enquiries can also contact LAWMA through info@lawma.gov.ng or its official social media platforms. The agency stressed that sustained public cooperation will remain important to improving sanitation and building a cleaner Lagos.