By Abbas Nazil
The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) and Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) Marine Unit have forged a partnership to improve waste management and ensure cleaner waterways.
The collaboration focuses on the removal and recycling of waste materials, particularly plastic bottles, from boats, jetties, and other water transport facilities.
The General Manager of LASWA, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, emphasized the importance of this partnership in tackling environmental issues caused by human activities on Lagos waterways.
He stated that LAWMA would collect recyclable waste from LASWA centers and transport them to recycling factories, ensuring a cleaner and safer environment for water transport users.
This initiative is part of LASWA’s broader commitment to maintaining sustainable waterways and reducing the negative impacts of waste accumulation.
In addition to tackling pollution, LASWA is advancing its Omi-Eko project, which aims to introduce electric ferries as a replacement for fossil fuel-powered boats.
Emmanuel highlighted that this shift to electric ferries would significantly reduce pollution caused by fuel emissions, contributing to a healthier ecosystem.
He noted that collaborations with relevant agencies would be necessary to ensure the project’s successful implementation.
Furthermore, LASWA is working with the Lagos State Ministry of Waterfront and Infrastructure Development to upgrade jetties and terminals.
The improvements will enhance operational efficiency and safety, ensuring that the infrastructure supports the state’s growing water transport sector.
To further boost safety, LASWA has also joined forces with the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).
The cooperation aims to enhance regulatory measures and safety protocols, ensuring that waterways remain navigable and secure for all users.
Through these collective efforts, LASWA is reinforcing its commitment to cleaner waterways, safer transport, and sustainable environmental practices in Lagos.
