LAWMA: Lagos Recycles 405 Tonnes of E-Waste in 2025

The Lagos Waste Management Authority has announced that the state recycled 405.17 tonnes of electronic waste (e-waste) in 2025, marking a significant milestone in its push toward environmental sustainability and safer waste management practices.

Muyiwa Gbadegesin, the managing director of LAWMA, disclosed the figures in Lagos, noting that the achievement reflects steady growth in the state’s formal recycling efforts. The latest figure represents an increase from 355.15 tonnes in 2024 and 305.63 tonnes in 2023, indicating a consistent upward trend in e-waste processing.

Rising E-Waste, Growing Response

E-waste, comprising discarded electronics such as mobile phones, computers, batteries, and household appliances, remains one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, largely due to rapid technological advancement and consumption.

However, improper disposal poses serious environmental and health risks, as many of these materials contain toxic substances like lead, mercury, and arsenic.

In response, Lagos State has intensified efforts to ensure safe collection, recycling, and disposal of electronic waste.

Strengthening Recycling Infrastructure

Gbadegesin revealed that the state has established a dedicated e-waste management unit and partnered with 17 certified recycling companies and approved collection centres to ensure proper handling of hazardous materials.

The agency also plays a regulatory role by formalising informal waste operators, enforcing compliance with environmental standards, and expanding public awareness on safe e-waste disposal.

These measures are part of broader efforts by the Lagos State Government to build a structured and sustainable waste management ecosystem.

Experts Raise Concerns Over Capacity Gaps

Despite the progress, environmental experts warn that significant challenges remain.

Stakeholders have highlighted limited recycling capacity relative to the volume of waste generated; low public awareness at the household level, and continued dominance of informal recycling practices.

They also stress the need for stronger implementation of policies such as the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework and increased funding for environmental initiatives.

Toward a Circular Economy

As Nigeria’s commercial hub, Lagos generates thousands of tonnes of waste daily, making effective waste management critical to public health and environmental protection.

LAWMA’s progress in e-waste recycling signals a growing shift toward a circular economy, where waste is treated as a resource rather than discarded.

Outlook

While the 405-tonne milestone underscores improving capacity and awareness, experts agree that scaling infrastructure, policy enforcement, and public education will be essential to fully address Lagos’ growing e-waste challenge.

The state’s next phase will likely determine whether it can transition from incremental progress to system-wide transformation in waste management.

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