Lagos waste agency removes street traders from key road corridors

The Lagos Waste Management Authority has removed street traders occupying road corridors and other unauthorised locations around Tafawa Balewa Square and the Costain Under Bridge/National Theatre axis, the agency said on Saturday. LAWMA’s Director of Public Affairs, Mukaila Sanusi, announced the operation in a statement. The agency said the exercise formed part of its continuing efforts to improve environmental cleanliness and protect public spaces in Lagos.

LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Muyiwa Gbadegesin said the operation was carried out in collaboration with Kick Against Indiscipline. According to him, the enforcement targeted trading activities that obstructed pedestrian and vehicular movement and contributed to environmental nuisance along the affected corridors. Gbadegesin urged traders to stop using road corridors, walkways and other locations that had not been approved for commercial activity.

He directed them to operate only from designated and authorised trading areas. The LAWMA chief said the orderly use of public spaces required sustained compliance with regulations. He added that the agency would continue working with relevant government bodies to address activities that undermine environmental standards and public order.

He also appealed to residents and other stakeholders to support enforcement efforts by complying with established rules and avoiding activities that obstruct public areas or contribute to environmental degradation. LAWMA said it would maintain monitoring of the affected locations to prevent the return of illegal trading and ensure continued compliance with the regulations.