Stakeholders Forum Held on Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Bill in Ogun State
Abeokuta, Ogun State – March 6, 2025 – A stakeholders forum was held yesterday, March 5, at the Ogun State House of Assembly Complex in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, to discuss the proposed Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Bill, 2025. The forum, themed “A Bill for a Law to Regulate the Activities of Scavengers and Waste Dealers in Ogun State to Promote Public Order, Environmental Safety, and Peaceful Coexistence, and for Related Matters,” brought together key stakeholders, including lawmakers, environmental experts, waste management professionals, and community leaders.
The event was declared open by the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elemide Oludaisi Olusegun, who emphasized the importance of the bill in addressing the challenges posed by unregulated scavenging activities in the state.
Key Attendees
In attendance was Hon. Waliu Owode, a member of the Ogun State House of Assembly and one of the co-sponsors of the bill. Other notable attendees included representatives from the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employees of Nigeria (NASWDEN), environmental advocacy groups, traditional rulers, and community leaders.
Key Objectives of the Bill
The proposed bill, which has already passed its first reading in the House of Assembly, seeks to:
- Regulate the operating hours of scavengers and waste dealers.
- Mandate the registration and identification of all scavengers and waste dealers.
- Empower communities to enforce restrictions on scavenging activities within their jurisdictions.
- Promote environmental safety and peaceful coexistence among residents and waste management stakeholders.
Stakeholders’ Contributions
During the forum, stakeholders shared insights and recommendations on the bill’s implementation. Representatives from NASWDEN expressed support for the bill but called for inclusive measures to ensure that legitimate scavengers are not unfairly targeted.
Environmental experts highlighted the need for stricter enforcement to curb illegal dumping and promote recycling. Community leaders also emphasized the importance of collaboration between scavengers, waste dealers, and residents to maintain public order and environmental cleanliness.
Speaker’s Remarks
In his opening address, Rt. Hon. Elemide Oludaisi Olusegun reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to creating laws that promote sustainable development and public safety.
“This bill is not just about regulation; it is about creating a cleaner, safer, and more harmonious environment for all residents of Ogun State. We must work together to ensure that the activities of scavengers and waste dealers are properly managed to protect our communities and environment,” he said.
Hon. Waliu Owode’s Perspective
Hon. Waliu Owode, one of the co-sponsors of the bill, emphasized the need for a balanced approach to regulation.
“This bill is designed to protect both the interests of scavengers and waste dealers and the well-being of our communities. By regulating their activities, we can ensure that they operate in a manner that promotes public order and environmental safety,” he stated.
Next Steps
The stakeholders forum marks a critical step in the legislative process, as it provides an opportunity for public input before the bill progresses to its second reading. The Ogun State House of Assembly is expected to review the recommendations from the forum and incorporate them into the final draft of the bill.
The Scavengers and Waste Dealers Regulation Bill, 2025 is part of the state government’s broader efforts to promote environmental sustainability and public order. If passed into law, it will set a precedent for other states in Nigeria to follow in addressing the challenges associated with waste management and scavenging activities.
Conclusion
The stakeholders forum was a productive engagement that highlighted the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable development. As Ogun State moves closer to enacting this landmark legislation, residents and stakeholders alike remain hopeful that the bill will bring about lasting positive change, ensuring a cleaner, safer, and more orderly environment for all.
