…Operators Cite Delayed Payments, High Diesel Costs
…Demand Review of Revenue Deductions, Support Fund
The Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN), Ogun State Chapter, has raised concerns over a looming waste management crisis in the state, warning that the continued sustainability of refuse evacuation operations is under severe threat due to mounting operational challenges.
In a statement issued by the State Chairman of the association, Pastor Jolaoluwa Emmanuel Gbenga, the group said waste management operators across Ogun State are grappling with rising costs, delayed payments and policies they described as unfavourable to the survival of their businesses.
AWAMN noted that the situation has become increasingly difficult for operators, many of whom are struggling to maintain service delivery amid worsening economic conditions.
According to the association, one of the major challenges confronting operators is the persistent delay in the payment of approved waste management bills by relevant authorities.
The group lamented that even when payments are eventually released, waste managers often receive only a fraction of the approved amounts, ranging between 25 and 50 per cent.
It stated that the development has created serious financial constraints for operators, leaving many indebted and unable to meet critical operational obligations.
The association explained that the delayed and partial payments have made it difficult for members to maintain equipment, pay workers’ salaries, procure diesel and continue delivering efficient waste evacuation services.
AWAMN warned that if the trend continues, many operators may be forced to suspend operations, thereby creating serious environmental challenges across the state.
The group therefore called for an immediate review of the current payment system to ensure prompt and full settlement of approved invoices.
According to the statement, “The current arrangement is no longer sustainable and poses a serious threat to effective waste management operations in Ogun State.”
The association also criticised the existing 45 per cent deduction from industrial waste revenue, describing the policy as excessive and burdensome.
It argued that the deduction does not reflect current economic realities, especially in view of rising operational expenses faced by waste managers.
AWAMN maintained that the policy significantly reduces the earnings of operators and threatens the viability of their businesses.
The association consequently appealed to the state government to reduce the deduction rate to a maximum of 20 per cent.
It said such a review would help operators remain productive, financially stable and better positioned to meet their service obligations.
The waste managers further identified the sharp increase in diesel prices as another major challenge affecting their operations.
According to the association, the rising cost of fuel has substantially increased the cost of waste collection and transportation, thereby placing additional pressure on operators.
AWAMN urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to fulfil an earlier promise to facilitate the acquisition of waste compactors for operators in the state.
The association noted that access to modern waste management equipment would improve operational efficiency and enhance refuse evacuation services across Ogun communities.
In addition, the group appealed for the establishment of a Special Support Fund to assist operators in coping with rising diesel prices and escalating maintenance costs.
While reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy environment, AWAMN warned that failure to urgently address the challenges confronting the sector could result in a major disruption of waste evacuation services.
The association stressed that such a development could have serious environmental and public health implications for residents across the state.
It therefore called on Governor Abiodun to urgently engage stakeholders, review existing policies and implement practical measures aimed at strengthening the waste management sector.
“The health and well-being of Ogun residents depend largely on an efficient and sustainable waste management system. Immediate intervention is therefore necessary to prevent a looming waste disposal crisis,” the statement concluded.
