The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has explored the potential of biogas solutions to global environmental challenges for air pollution, climate change and water contamination, among others.
The Managing Director of LAWMA, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said this at a lunch and learn lecture with the theme: “Catalysing Innovation through Collaboration: Unleashing the Power of the Triple Helix of Government, Industry and Academia,” in Lagos.
Gbadegesin described the ‘Lunch and Learn Series’ as an informal but intellectually stimulating platform, designed to spark dialogue, encourage research, and enhance capacity within the agency.
“This is an informal session, which is why it is called the Lunch and Learn Series.
“Programmes like this are a tradition in academic environments where they have been proven to contribute to academic and personal development significantly.
“We are replicating that model here at LAWMA because what we do is not just based on logistics; LAWMA is a scientific organisation with scientific officers and we recognise the importance of academia in addressing waste management challenges.
“Therefore, we must prioritise research and continuous learning to develop strategic solutions tailored to our region’s specific needs. Initiatives like this are the way forward,” Gbadegesin said.
In a keynote presentation, Prof. Mats Eklund, a globally recognised expert in sustainability and innovation, shared his insights on the potential of biogas solutions to address global challenges such as air pollution, climate change, water contamination, and soil health.
Eklund, who is also the scientific leader of the Biogas Research Center at Linköping University, Sweden, demonstrated how several environmental challenges could be addressed through several research works that had proved effective in many areas.
“People need to see waste differently, not as dirt or hazards, but as opportunities.
Over time, people’s perceptions can change, and they will begin to see the immense potential in waste.” Eklund said.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Environment, Mr. Tajudeen Gaji, expressed gratitude to Eklund for his valuable contribution to advancing innovation in waste management.
Gaji said the ministry remains committed to fostering collaboration between government, industry, and the academia, to enhance knowledge sharing and impactful solutions.
The Executive Director of Finance, LAWMA, Mr Kunle Adebiyi shared the authority’s intention to leverage technological innovations to stay competitive with other developing countries.
Adebiyi underscored the many opportunities in waste management, with biogas research serving as a prime example.
Stakeholders at the event included Mr Adebola Sabi, Chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Environment Parastatal; Mr Adedoyin Lasisi, Director and Deputy Director of the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, Mr Akin Alabi.
Others included the Managing Director of Zoomlion Nigeria; Mr Abubakar Habeebah; top lecturers from the University of Lagos, researchers, and LAWMA management staff.
This “Lunch & Learn” Series marks LAWMA’s commitment to environmental sustainability and leadership in operational excellence.
It is the first in a series of knowledge-sharing initiatives designed to foster innovation and build strategic partnerships in the waste management sector.
NAN
