Ebola Alert: LAWMA Tightens Medical Waste Management Protocols Across Lagos
Oluwafunbi Bello 
LAWMA's Managing Director, Dr Muyiwa Gbadegesin
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has placed healthcare facilities and licensed medical waste operators on heightened alert, directing them to strengthen infection prevention and waste management protocols following the recent Ebola outbreak reported in parts of East Africa.
The directive, issued on Friday by LAWMA Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, is part of proactive measures aimed at safeguarding public health and preventing any potential disease outbreak in Lagos State, despite the absence of confirmed Ebola cases in Nigeria.
Gbadegesin said preparedness remains critical in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, stressing that effective medical waste management is a key component of public health protection.
“Although there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Lagos or Nigeria, preparedness remains one of the most effective tools in disease prevention,” he said.
According to him, healthcare facilities must reinforce infection prevention and control measures, ensure strict adherence to approved medical waste management procedures, and maintain vigilance against emerging public health threats.
He urged hospitals, clinics and licensed medical waste operators to strengthen hand hygiene practices, ensure the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and maintain safe handling and disposal of medical specimens and infectious materials.
The LAWMA boss also emphasised the need for proper segregation of infectious waste at the point of generation, noting that waste handlers and transporters must fully comply with approved collection, transportation and disposal guidelines.
“Effective medical waste management is essential in limiting the spread of infectious diseases and protecting healthcare workers, patients, waste handlers and the wider public,” he stated.
Gbadegesin assured residents that Lagos State remains vigilant and has sustained surveillance, preparedness and response mechanisms to address potential public health emergencies.
He added that LAWMA would continue monitoring compliance among healthcare facilities and waste operators while intensifying stakeholder engagement to maintain high standards of environmental and public health safety.
The agency also urged health institutions across the state to review their infection prevention protocols and promptly report any suspected public health concerns through the appropriate channels.
Gbadegesin further disclosed that ongoing training, sensitisation and compliance initiatives would be sustained to strengthen the state’s readiness and resilience against future public health threats.
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Korede Abdullah 