In response to a viral video that caused public outrage on social media, the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has clarified the wage structure for street sweepers.
The video, which featured a LAWMA worker claiming that street sweepers were being underpaid and not receiving the promised ₦85,000 minimum wage, gained widespread attention. The worker alleged that the sweepers were only paid ₦30,000, which was later increased to ₦40,000 in February.
LAWMA, through a statement shared by Jibril Gawat, Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Social Media, defended the salaries of the sweepers and reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of its workers.
The statement explained that the street sweeping program is managed by LAWMA through private companies that hire the sweepers under clearly defined contracts. These private firms are responsible for directly paying the workers. According to the recent wage review, street sweepers now earn ₦40,000 per month, while supervisors earn ₦50,000, which corresponds to their four-hour daily shifts.
The statement further noted that the wage increase was part of a broader effort to provide financial stability to workers while allowing them the flexibility to engage in other economic activities outside of their scheduled shifts.
LAWMA also highlighted several initiatives to improve worker welfare, such as regular health and safety training, reclassification of sweeping routes to ensure greater worker security, accident and emergency insurance coverage, and the provision of uniforms and work implements to uphold workers’ dignity and efficiency.
Additionally, LAWMA assured the public that any discrepancies in salary payments or violations of contractual agreements would be promptly addressed and rectified. The agency reiterated its commitment to fair treatment for its workers and acknowledged the essential role they play in the success of the street sweeping program.