Yemisi Dada
The Lagos State Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, has reiterated its committed to improving the welfare and working conditions of street sweepers through implementation of several initiatives to enhance their safety, well-being, and efficiency.
LAWMA Director, Public Affairs, Mrs Folashade Kadri, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos.
The statement highlights some of the interventions for the street sweepers to include, regular health and safety training to ensure best practices in their daily operations, reclassification of sweeping routes to prioritize worker safety and security, accident and emergency insurance coverage to provide medical support in case of work-related incidents.
Others include provision of uniforms and necessary work implements to ensure dignity and efficiency in their duties.
While addressing concerns and ensuring compliance, the statement noted that LAWMA takes the concerns of street sweepers seriously and remains committed to ensuring they receive fair treatment in line with agreed standards.
It assures that reports of salary discrepancies or contractual violations are promptly investigated, and corrective measures will be enforced where necessary, noting that the success of the street sweeping program relies on the dedication of these essential workers, and LAWMA will continue to uphold policies that ensure their welfare while enhancing service delivery for a cleaner Lagos.
The statement maintains that Street sweepers are engaged through private companies under structured contracts, with their responsibilities and entitlements clearly defined.
The private companies are responsible for directly paying their engaged sweepers which following a recent wage review, sweeper salaries were adjusted to align with the national minimum wage and proportionated to their work schedule, which consists of four hours daily shift.
According to the statement, sweepers earn ₦40,000 per month, while Supervisors earn ₦50,000 per month
The four hours daily shift for each street sweeper arrangement provides workers with financial stability while allowing flexibility for other economic activities outside their assigned shifts.