The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has responded to concerns about the salaries of street sweepers following a viral video that sparked outrage on social media.
The video featured a LAWMA worker claiming that sweepers were being underpaid and had not received the promised minimum wage of ₦85,000. The worker alleged that instead of the expected amount, sweepers were only being paid ₦30,000, which was recently increased to ₦40,000 in February. The claims led to widespread criticism and concerns over the treatment of street sweepers in Lagos.
In response, LAWMA issued a statement through Jibril Gawat, a Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Social Media. The agency defended its wage structure and noted that the street sweeping programme is operated through private companies, which are responsible for hiring and paying the workers.
The statement explained that street sweepers are engaged under structured contracts with private firms that determine their wages. It further noted that after a recent wage review, street sweepers now earn ₦40,000 per month, while supervisors receive ₦50,000. LAWMA justified the wages by stating that sweepers work four-hour shifts daily, making their salaries proportionate to their working hours.
LAWMA also noted that the wage increase was meant to provide financial stability while allowing workers time for other economic activities outside their shifts. The agency reassured the public that it remains committed to worker welfare, listing several initiatives aimed at improving their conditions. These include regular health and safety training, better route classifications for security, accident and emergency insurance coverage, and the provision of uniforms and work tools to ensure efficiency and dignity in their jobs.
The statement further noted that any discrepancies in salary payments or violations of contract agreements would be promptly investigated and addressed. LAWMA reaffirmed its dedication to fair treatment of workers, stating that the success of the street sweeping programme relies heavily on their efforts.
