The Lagos State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Lafarge Africa Plc for the collection of non-recyclable combustible waste across the state and landfill sites. The waste will be transported to Lafarge’s Ewekoro plant for use as an alternative fuel in cement production.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Alausa, commissioner for the environment and water resources, Tokunbo Wahab, reiterated the administration’s commitment to reducing landfill waste and advancing the state’s zero-waste initiative. “This collaboration will significantly cut down the volume of waste reaching landfill sites and promote sustainable waste conversion,” he said.
Wahab emphasised that waste has inherent value when properly managed, adding that the state has previously signed agreements on landfill decommissioning, waste-to-energy conversion and electronic waste management. “Waste sorting is a culture we must build over time. Separation of plastics, paper and other materials is here to stay,” he added.
Lafarge Africa’s CEO, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of the initiative. “This partnership reinforces our commitment to sustainable construction and climate action. The collected waste will replace fossil fuels in our cement kilns, reducing our carbon footprint and advancing Nigeria’s decarbonisation efforts,” he said.
Managing director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Muyiwa Gbadegesin, described the partnership as a significant step toward improved waste management. “Lagos will set an example not just for Africa, but globally, through this initiative,” he stated.
Senior government officials, including special adviser on the environment, Olakunle Rotimi-Akodu and key representatives from Lafarge Africa, were present at the signing ceremony.
