Informal waste pickers in Lagos have called for official recognition and inclusion in Nigeria’s waste management system, highlighting their contributions to environmental sustainability and the economy.
In a statement issued on Friday to mark Workers’ Day, the group said thousands of waste pickers across communities play a critical role in recovering recyclable materials, reducing pollution, and supporting the circular economy.
Despite their efforts, the workers lamented that they continue to operate under harsh conditions, including stigma, low income, lack of social protection, and limited access to healthcare and safety support.
The group urged government authorities, private sector stakeholders, and the public to acknowledge waste picking as legitimate work and implement policies that integrate them into formal waste management structures.
They also called for fair compensation, access to healthcare, provision of safety equipment, and financial support to improve their livelihoods.
“There can be no true sustainability without waste pickers. Our work keeps cities cleaner, reduces landfill pressure, and supports livelihoods,” the statement read.
The statement was signed by Comrade Friday Oku, President of the Association of Scraps and Wastepickers of Lagos State (ASWOL).
