Lagos: LAWMA clears illegal traders from TBS, National Theatre axis

The Lagos Waste Management Authority, LAWMA, in collaboration with the Kick Against Indiscipline, KAI, has stepped up enforcement against illegal street trading in parts of Lagos, dislodging traders occupying road corridors and other unauthorised spaces.

The operation covered areas around Tafawa Balewa Square, TBS, and the Costain Under Bridge/National Theatre axis, where traders were removed from locations said to be obstructing the movement of pedestrians and vehicles.

LAWMA Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said on Tuesday that the exercise was part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to protect public spaces, improve environmental conditions and ensure that roads and walkways serve their designated purposes.

Gbadegesin said unauthorised occupation of pedestrian walkways and road corridors by traders disrupts the proper use of public spaces and contributes to environmental nuisance in the affected locations.

He cautioned traders against returning to the cleared areas, urging them to conduct their businesses only at designated and approved trading locations.

The LAWMA boss stressed that keeping public spaces orderly would require sustained compliance with environmental regulations as well as continuous enforcement by relevant government agencies.

“LAWMA will continue to work with relevant government agencies to address activities that undermine environmental standards and public order,” he said.

The latest enforcement comes amid efforts by the authority to keep major Lagos corridors cleaner and accessible, particularly in areas experiencing heavy pedestrian and vehicular traffic.

Gbadegesin called on residents and other stakeholders to cooperate with enforcement agencies by adhering to established regulations and avoiding activities that obstruct public spaces or contribute to environmental degradation.

He further disclosed that LAWMA would maintain surveillance of the affected areas to prevent traders from returning to the cleared locations and ensure continued compliance.

The authority said the exercise formed part of its wider enforcement programme aimed at preserving environmental standards and safeguarding public spaces across Lagos.

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