Meeting between WAPAN and LAWMA
We’re pleased to share insights from a recent meeting held at the Boardroom of LAWMA on 24th May 2024, convened by the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution under the Federal Ministry for Foreign Affairs. The meeting aimed to address the frequent conflicts between government agencies and waste pickers (Urban Miners) in Lagos.
The session brought together researchers from the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, led by Dr. Joseph Ochugbwu, senior officials from Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) headed by ED, Mr. Adebiyi Kunle, Lagos Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN) Coordinator Adebisi Franklyn, and Mr. Olugbenga Adebola, National President of AWAMN.
Key topics of discussion included the use of banned carts, cases of arms proliferation, theft, defacing the city metropolis, operating within government road setbacks, and picking up general wastes from households—duties exclusively assigned to PSP.
Following a productive exchange and deliberation, the Institute aims to evaluate, research, and report resolutions to foster a seamless symbiosis between the Lagos State government, represented by LAWMA, and waste pickers (WAPAN) for the collective benefit of all residents.
Moreover, the Institute will provide recommendations on improving the livelihoods of waste pickers in Lagos to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and President Tinubu