“Young Eco-Heroes: Protecting Our Environment” theme aims to inspire next generation of environmental advocates
Babajide Fadoju
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, has declared open the 2026 LAWMA Academy Summer School, themed “Young Eco-Heroes: Protecting Our Environment,” describing it as another important investment in building a generation of young Lagosians who understand that protecting the environment is both a responsibility and an opportunity.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr. Gbadegesin stated that sustainable environmental transformation cannot be achieved through infrastructure and enforcement alone. He emphasized that it must also be built on knowledge, values, and everyday habits, which is why environmental education remains one of the most important investments the Authority can make. Through the LAWMA Academy, children are being introduced to the practical principles of waste segregation, recycling, environmental sanitation, climate action, and the circular economy.
The LAWMA MD noted that the Academy is helping young participants understand that the choices they make every day have a direct impact on the communities they live in and the future they will inherit. This year’s Summer School combines interactive classroom sessions with practical demonstrations, creative recycling projects, educational excursions, and hands-on activities designed to make learning engaging, memorable, and relevant. The goal, he said, is not simply to teach environmental concepts but to inspire young people to become advocates for cleaner neighbourhoods and responsible environmental behaviour in their homes, schools, and communities.
Dr. Gbadegesin commended the LAWMA Academy team, facilitators, and all partners for their dedication to the initiative and encouraged every participant to embrace the experience with curiosity and enthusiasm. He affirmed that by nurturing today’s young eco-heroes, the Authority is laying the foundation for the cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable Lagos envisioned by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
