Residents of Gbagada Phase II Estate in Lagos can breathe a sigh of relief as waste collection operations have finally resumed after a BusinessCabal media report drew attention to the neglect by the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) and waste collection company, Kent and Kelly Nigeria Limited.

The sorry state of affairs came to light when residents voiced their concerns about the mounting waste in their community, posing a significant health risk. Flies infested the area, a visible sign of the accumulated waste, prompting immediate action.

Responding swiftly to the media report, LAWMA and Kent and Kelly Nigeria Limited swiftly swung into action, dispatching a large truck to collect the piles of waste that had been left unattended for an alarming period.

An anonymous member of the Gbagada residents association confirmed the renewed efforts of the waste collection company. Expressing gratitude, they said, “They started coming the second day after they saw the publication. Their boss came and apologized. They cited some issues at the dumpsite, but their boss promised to ensure weekly collections. He even provided us with his contact details to report any lapses directly.”

Mary, another resident, echoed the positive change, noting that waste collection operations have significantly improved since the media report. “We are really surprised. They are now coming again. We hope they continue to be like this so we don’t have to report them again,” she added.

Bolatito, a shop owner, also expressed relief, stating that the waste collection company consistently dispatched a large truck to clear the accumulating waste.

However, a top official from Kent and Kelly Limited, who requested anonymity, attributed the initial neglect to recent heavy rainfall and the rising cost of diesel. He acknowledged the nationwide issue, explaining, “This problem is not peculiar to this estate. We are aware of the issue of diesel in this country. A truck that used to do two trips a day cannot do it any longer. Also, every part of the vehicle is now costly after the COVID-19 pandemic. And the whole thing unfortunately came up when we had heavy rainfall.”

Folashade Kadri, the Public Relations Officer of LAWMA, confirmed the resumption of waste collection operations but declined to provide further comments.

With waste collection services back on track, the residents of Gbagada Phase II Estate can look forward to a cleaner and healthier living environment. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical role media plays in highlighting community issues and holding relevant authorities accountable for their responsibilities.