…..Operators Blame Delayed Payments, Rising Costs; Seek Governor Abiodun's Urgent Intervention

The Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN), Ogun State Chapter, has raised the alarm over a looming waste evacuation crisis in the state, warning that the sustainability of waste management operations is under serious threat due to escalating operational costs, delayed payments, and what it described as unfavourable policies.

In a statement signed by the State Chairman of the Association, Pastor Jolaoluwa Emmanuel Gbenga, AWAMN said the situation has been aggravated by certain policies and administrative practices of the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA), which have left many operators financially distressed, while forcing some out of business entirely.

The association expressed deep concern over the persistent delay in the payment of approved waste management bills. According to AWAMN, even when payments are eventually made, operators often receive only 25 per cent, 30 per cent, or at best, 50 per cent of the amounts due to them.

It noted that the development has plunged many waste managers into debt, making it increasingly difficult to maintain equipment, pay workers' salaries, purchase diesel, and sustain efficient service delivery.

AWAMN therefore called for an immediate review of the current payment system to ensure the prompt and full settlement of approved invoices, stressing that the existing arrangement is unsustainable and poses a serious threat to effective waste management in the state.

The association also criticised the existing 45 per cent deduction from industrial waste revenue, describing it as excessive and unjustifiable in the face of prevailing economic realities and rising operational costs.

According to the statement, the deduction places an unbearable burden on operators and undermines the viability of their businesses.

AWAMN consequently urged the state government to review the deduction rate downward to a maximum of 20 per cent in order to reflect current economic conditions and enable operators to remain productive and financially sustainable.

The association further lamented the astronomical increase in the cost of diesel, noting that the situation has significantly affected the ability of waste managers to effectively discharge their responsibilities, thereby threatening environmental sanitation across Ogun State.

To address these challenges, AWAMN appealed to Governor Dapo Abiodun to fulfil his earlier promise to facilitate the acquisition of waste compactors for waste managers in the state, noting that access to modern equipment would greatly enhance operational efficiency and improve waste evacuation services.

The association also requested the establishment of a Special Support Fund (SSF) to cushion the impact of rising diesel prices and other maintenance costs on operators.

While reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a clean, healthy, and environmentally sustainable Ogun State, AWAMN warned that failure to urgently address the challenges confronting the sector could lead to a major disruption in waste evacuation services, with far-reaching environmental and public health consequences.

The association therefore called on Governor Abiodun to intervene without delay by engaging relevant stakeholders, reviewing existing policies, and implementing practical measures that will strengthen the waste management sector and safeguard the health and well-being of residents across the state.

Signed:

Pastor Jolaoluwa Emmanuel Gbenga

State Chairman

Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN), Ogun State Chapter