The Lagos State Government has entered into a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Ghanaian Waste Management company JONSPONG, aiming to revolutionize the treatment of solid and liquid waste in the state. The MOU, signed by Commissioner of Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, and JOSPONG Group’s Executive Chairman, Dr. Joseph Agyepong, includes the establishment of a Material Recovery Facility to alleviate downstream pressure on landfills.
One of the key objectives of this collaboration is to introduce Compact/Mobile Transfer loading stations, replacing existing stationary plants and diminishing waste at critical points such as markets. Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab highlighted the importance of addressing the challenges posed by the substantial amount of waste generated in a rapidly growing megacity like Lagos.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Wahab described the MOU as a significant milestone in transforming Lagos’s waste management landscape. He emphasized the responsibility of the government to confront the solid and liquid waste management challenges and expressed optimism about the partnership with JONSPONG, a leading environmental and waste management services provider in Africa.
The collaboration is set to develop integrated solid and liquid waste management facilities, aligning with current and future demands of the city’s growing population. The focus will encompass technology, advocacy, enforcement, and promotion of circular economy innovations, including recycling, composting, reuse, and waste-to-energy projects. These efforts are crucial in reducing the environmental impact of waste, generating employment, and fostering sustainable development in Lagos.
Dr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong, Executive Chairman of JONSPONG Group, addressed the vital role of environmental sanitation in public health, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal No. 6 of Clean Water & Sanitation. He emphasized the need to tackle issues related to inadequate access to infrastructure, proper sanitation facilities, and water treatment.
According to a report by the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), Lagos produces approximately 13,000 tons of waste per day. Dr. Agyepong assured that JONSPONG’s primary focus is on downstream waste management, and plans are underway to provide support to waste collectors with advanced equipment.
As part of the collaboration, JONSPONG pledged to supply 2000 tricycles to support the Association of Waste Managers in Lagos for efficient waste collection. The partnership involves working closely with Lagos State Government entities, including Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO).
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Environmental Services, Dr. Tajudeen Omobolaji Gaji, expressed optimism about the collaboration, foreseeing a cleaner and healthier Lagos as a result of the MOU.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Lagos State Commissioners for Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Abayomi Oluyomi, Chairman House Committee on Environment, Hon Taiwo Afinnih, Chairman Committee on Environment Parastatal, Hon Rasheed Shabi, Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Mr. Abdulkabir Ogungbo, and various stakeholders from Ghana and the financial sector.