- A viral video alleging that Lagos street sweepers earn only ₦30,000 sparked public outcry
- In response, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) clarified that sweepers receive ₦40,000, while supervisors earn ₦50,000
- LAWMA also explained that sweepers are employed by private companies, which are responsible for handling their wages
The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has issued a clarification regarding the wage structure of street sweepers after a viral video sparked widespread outrage on social media.
In the video, a LAWMA worker claimed that sweepers were underpaid and had not received the promised ₦85,000 minimum wage. The video quickly gained traction, generating public criticism.
Private firms responsible for paying street sweepers, LAWMA clarifies
The worker in the viral video alleged that the sweepers are earning only ₦30,000, which had been recently increased to ₦40,000 in February.
In response, the Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Jibril Gawat released a statement defending the current wage structure and reaffirmed LAWMA’s commitment to the welfare of its workers.
He explained that the street sweeping program was managed by LAWMA in partnership with private companies that engage sweepers under clear contractual agreements.
Gawat clarified that these private firms were responsible for directly paying the workers. According to the new minimum wage structure, street sweepers now earn ₦40,000 per month, while supervisors receive ₦50,000. The wage was described as proportional to the four-hour daily shifts worked by the sweepers.
The statement read, “Street sweepers are engaged through private companies under structured contracts, with their responsibilities and entitlements clearly defined. These private companies are responsible for directly paying their engaged sweepers.
“Following a recent wage review, sweeper salaries have been adjusted to align with the national minimum wage and are proportionate to their work schedule, which consists of four-hour daily shifts.”
LAWMA reaffirms commitment to fair treatment, improved working conditions
The statement further emphasised that the wage increase was part of a broader initiative to provide financial stability for the workers, enabling them to pursue other economic activities outside their assigned shifts.
LAWMA also outlined several initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of its workers, including regular health and safety training, reclassification of sweeping routes for increased security, accident and emergency insurance, and the provision of uniforms and work implements to enhance dignity and efficiency.
LAWMA reassured the public that any discrepancies in salary payments or violations of contractual agreements would be investigated and rectified promptly.
The agency also reiterated that the success of the street sweeping program depends largely on the dedication of the workers, and it remains committed to ensuring fair treatment and improved working conditions for all involved.
Lagos State bans sachet water, single-use plastics, State commencement date
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Lagos State announced plans to ban single-use plastics, including polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles and sachet water.
Stakeholders advocated for a phased approach to the ban to allow for adequate compliance and ease in light of the current economic challenges.