By Abdullahi Lukman
The Association of Scraps and Wastes Pickers of Lagos (ASWOL) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing zero waste initiatives and strengthening waste management practices across Lagos.
Speaking in an interview with newsmen on Sunday.
ASWOL President, Friday Oku, said the association was intensifying efforts to promote structured engagement and organisation of its members to support sustainable waste practices in the state.
Oku explained that integrating waste pickers into the formal waste management value chain remains central to achieving lasting environmental results.
He acknowledged that recent challenges, including the ban on scavenging and cart pushing, had disrupted operations, but noted that members remain determined.
He called on households to separate waste at source to facilitate the recovery of recyclable materials, while residual waste would be managed by Private Sector Participants (PSP) operators.
Proper segregation, he said, would significantly reduce the volume of waste sent to dumpsites and boost recycling efforts statewide.
The ASWOL president described ongoing discussions with the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) as productive.
He revealed that data collection on waste pickers is underway in collaboration with LAWMA across various clusters and local government areas.
According to Oku, over 100 members have benefited from a train-the-trainers workshop focused on zero waste management and occupational health and safety.
The association has also distributed personal protective equipment to improve safety standards.
He added that ASWOL’s roadmap is designed to transition waste pickers from informal and unrecognised status into full integration within the state’s waste management framework.
Formalisation, he said, would enhance livelihoods, generate green jobs for youths and women, and promote climate action alongside a sustainable circular economy.
Oku expressed optimism that a pilot scheme would commence once the state government concludes the necessary documentation.
