Lagos Street Sweeper Protests Low Pay, Harsh Working Conditions
A street sweeper employed by the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has raised an outcry over poor wages, harsh working conditions, and lack of health benefits, calling on the agency’s leadership to address their grievances. In a video shared on Wednesday, the worker lamented the “inhumane treatment” faced by sweepers, despite their critical role in maintaining cleanliness in Lagos.
The worker, whose identity was not disclosed, highlighted several issues, including unpaid wages, excessive salary deductions, and the lack of basic work tools. She revealed that sweepers were promised a salary increase to N85,000 in August 2024 but continue to receive as little as N30,000 to N40,000, with unexplained deductions. Additionally, the N25,000 presidential wage allowance approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reportedly been reduced to N10,000 for LAWMA workers, with inconsistent payments.
Key Concerns Raised by the Worker
- Low Wages and Unexplained Deductions: Despite promises of a salary increase, sweepers are paid far less than the agreed amount, with significant deductions reducing their take-home pay.
- Lack of Work Tools: Workers are required to purchase their own brooms, which cost N1,000 each, without any allowances for equipment.
- Harsh Working Conditions: Sweepers face extreme conditions, including exposure to harmful dust and traffic hazards, without health benefits or risk allowances.
- Fatalities on Duty: At least three sweepers lost their lives last year due to work-related hazards, with little to no compensation for their families.
- Disparity in Benefits: While LAWMA executives enjoy food, transport, and medical benefits, frontline workers struggle to make ends meet.
Appeal to LAWMA Leadership
In the video, the worker directly addressed LAWMA’s CEO, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, and other top officials, pleading for fair treatment and timely payment of salaries. She emphasized the importance of sweepers to the functioning of LAWMA, stating that without their efforts, the agency would not be able to maintain cleanliness in Lagos.
“We acknowledge that you are our bosses, and without you, we may not have these jobs. However, without us, the workers on the streets, LAWMA itself would not function,” she said.
The worker also criticized the contract system under which sweepers are employed, arguing that even contract workers deserve fair wages. She revealed that in February 2025, sweepers were paid only N40,000 instead of the promised N85,000, leaving them unable to afford basic necessities.
Calls for Justice and Fair Treatment
The worker called on LAWMA’s leadership to “do the right thing” and pay sweepers their full salaries. She also urged the agency to provide work tools and health benefits, noting that the current conditions are unsustainable and exploitative.
“We are not asking for too much—just our rightful salaries. Even factory cleaners earn more than us. If deductions must be made due to the contract system, it should not exceed N10,000, yet you are deducting N45,000 from our pay,” she said.
The worker warned that if LAWMA workers refuse to work for just three days, Lagos would be in chaos, underscoring the critical role they play in maintaining the city’s cleanliness.
LAWMA’s Response
As of the time of reporting, LAWMA has not issued an official statement addressing the worker’s allegations. However, the video has sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many Nigerians calling for immediate action to improve the welfare of street sweepers.
Broader Implications
The protest highlights the broader challenges faced by low-income workers in Nigeria, particularly those in the informal sector. Despite their essential contributions to society, many workers are underpaid, overworked, and lack basic benefits. The case also raises questions about the accountability of government agencies and the need for stronger labor protections.
The plight of Lagos street sweepers underscores the urgent need for reforms to ensure fair wages, safe working conditions, and adequate benefits for all workers. As the video continues to circulate online, pressure is mounting on LAWMA’s leadership to address the grievances of its workers and take concrete steps to improve their welfare.
For now, the street sweepers remain hopeful that their voices will be heard and that their sacrifices will be recognized and rewarded. The outcome of this protest could set a precedent for how Nigeria treats its essential workers, paving the way for a more equitable and just society.
