The Lagos Waste Management Authority on Monday honoured female sanitation workers across the state with free medical screenings and recognition awards to commemorate International Women’s Day.
The event took place at the agency’s headquarters in Ijora Olopa and brought together female street sweepers and other staff members in appreciation of their efforts in keeping Lagos clean.
This was made known in a statement shared by the agency on its social media platforms on Tuesday.
Speaking during the event, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Muyiwa Gbadegesin, said the programme was organised to recognise the commitment and resilience of female sanitation workers.
“The contributions of women, including our hardworking sweepers, are crucial to the operational success of LAWMA and the sanitation of Lagos communities,” he said.
Gbadegesin explained that the celebration included health screenings and reward packages aimed at encouraging preventive healthcare and improving the welfare of the workers.
He added that the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration had also approved a health insurance scheme for street sweepers in the state.
According to him, about 16,000 sweepers will soon receive health insurance cards under the Ilera Eko programme, allowing them to access free medical services.
“Their health insurance cards are expected to be issued within the coming weeks, affording all 16,000 sweepers free access to medical services under the Ilera Eko health initiative,” he said.
The LAWMA boss encouraged workers to prioritise their health by attending regular medical check-ups and urged them to support the education of their children, especially the girl child.
He also appreciated partners that supported the programme, including Agatem Pharmaceuticals, which donated medications; Toleram Group, which provided food items; and Waste Care, which offered financial support to the sanitation workers.
As part of the celebration, five female street sweepers received awards and gifts in recognition of their dedication and outstanding performance.
Speaking on behalf of the workers, sweepers Mary Omoyosi and Taiwo Azeez thanked the Lagos State Government and LAWMA management for initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of sanitation workers.
They added that the agency had continued to prioritise staff welfare through prompt payment of salaries and other support programmes.
