Lagos State has taken a major step toward tackling its long-standing waste management challenges by signing a concession agreement with Ghana’s Jospong Group of Companies. The agreement is part of the state’s renewed commitment to its “Cleaner Lagos” initiative and aims to introduce sustainable solutions while creating thousands of jobs.
Speaking at the signing ceremony held at Alausa, Ikeja, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the partnership as a fusion of strategic vision and practical execution, marking a turning point in the state’s environmental sustainability efforts.
“Lagos produces around 13,000 tonnes of waste every single day. That’s a huge number, and it’s clear we need stronger systems in place to deal with it,” the governor said.
“We are ready to learn from the Ghanaian experience. This agreement will not only help rid Lagos of waste but also create thousands of job opportunities and transfer valuable technology to Nigerians.”
Under the new plan, a Transfer Loading Station will be built at the Olusosun dumpsite, allowing for its complete shutdown. From there, 2,500 tonnes of waste will be moved daily to a new Material Recovery Facility in Ikorodu. Similar projects are planned for the Solous III dumpsite in Igando, with 1,500 tonnes redirected to another recovery centre in Badagry. The state will also introduce self-tipping tricycles to enhance waste collection in hard-to-reach areas across Lagos.
The concession agreement was formally signed by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, and the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab. Representing Jospong Group was its Executive Chairman, Mr. Joseph Siaw Agyepong.
Mr Wahab explained that the Ghanaian firm was selected after a rigorous evaluation of its proposal, technical expertise, and the viability of its solutions.
“This is a relationship that we have tested. We are confident in the skill and expertise Jospong brings to Lagos,” Wahab said.
In his remarks, Mr. Agyepong praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership and pledged full commitment to the 18-month timeline outlined in the agreement.
“We will definitely and wholeheartedly work to the timeline of the collaboration. We are convinced that this partnership will not only improve waste management in Lagos but transform what was once a burden into a valuable resource,” he stated.
According to him, the project is expected to generate about 5,000 direct and indirect jobs while ensuring the transfer of waste management technology to Nigerians.
With this landmark agreement, Lagos is poised to take bold steps toward a cleaner, healthier, and more efficient urban environment, setting a model for other cities in West Africa.