- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), has reaffirmed its commitment to fair treatment of street sweepers across the state.
Reacting to a viral video on social media where an unidentified sweeper called out her superiors over unfair labour practices, LAWMA in a statement issued on Thursday explained its operational structure and remuneration system.
NPO reported that the unidentified street sweeper had called out their bosses over alleged underpayment of their salaries.
In the video recording made by the woman in LAWMA uniform, she alleged that they are yet to be paid the new salary of N85,000 instead of N40,000.
She claimed that they are being paid N30,000 as against the new salary.
While acknowledging the role of that street sweepers, LAWMA, in the statement issued on its official X handle, explained that the sweepers are engaged through private companies under structured contracts.
The private companies, according to the statement, are responsible for directly paying their engaged sweepers.
However, the authority disclosed that the sweeper salaries have been adjusted to align with the national minimum wage.
As against the woman’s claim of N85,000 increment, LAWMA stated that the salary, as adjusted, now sees sweepers earn N40,000 per month while their supervisors earn N50,000 per month.
LAWMA also highlighted in the statement other welfare packages it initiated to enhance the safety, well-being, and efficiency of the street sweepers.
These include regular health and safety training, reclassification of sweeping routes as well as accident and emergency insurance coverage amongst others.
LAWMA, however, maintained that reports of salary discrepancies or contractual violations are promptly investigated, and corrective measures are enforced where necessary.
The statement read in part; “The Lagos State street sweeping program plays a vital role in maintaining clean & healthy environment.The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) oversees this program, ensuring that sweeping operations run efficiently & that workers receive fair remuneration & adequate support.
“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.
“Under this structure: Sweepers earn ₦40,000 per month; Supervisors earn ₦50,000 per month
“This arrangement provides workers with financial stability while allowing flexibility for other economic activities outside their assigned shifts.
“LAWMA is committed to improving the welfare and working conditions of street sweepers and has implemented several initiatives to enhance their safety, well-being, and efficiency.
“These include:
•Regular health and safety training to ensure best practices in their daily operations.
•Reclassification of sweeping routes to prioritize worker safety and security.
•Accident and emergency insurance coverage to provide medical support in case of work-related incidents.
•Provision of uniforms and necessary work implements to ensure dignity and efficiency in their duties.
“Addressing Concerns and Ensuring Compliance
“LAWMA takes the concerns of street sweepers seriously and remains committed to ensuring they receive fair treatment in line with agreed standards.
“Any reports of salary discrepancies or contractual violations are promptly investigated, and corrective measures are enforced where necessary.
“The success of the street sweeping program relies on the dedication of these essential workers, and LAWMA will continue to uphold policies that ensure their welfare while enhancing service delivery for a cleaner Lagos.”