Ahead of the festive season, the Lagos State Government has called on commuters and road users to prioritize the safety and well-being of highway sweepers, easily identifiable by their orange or lemon-coloured work jumpsuits.
The government, in a statement on its official X, noted the importance of these workers, describing them as “community ambassadors” essential to the state’s vision of a sustainable urban environment.
“Own Your Environment Street sweeping is an important and necessary tool to ensure that our cities are clean and safe, protecting the health of citizens and the environment,” the statement read.
“Regular sweeping of our city streets reduces the pollutants that can otherwise enter our waterways, leading to more significant public health benefits and reducing the amount of trash and debris on our roads.
“Therefore, our highway managers are crucial to our vision of a cleaner and healthier Lagos. They are our community ambassadors.”
Highway sweepers often work in hazardous conditions and are exposed to moving traffic and environmental pollutants. Last November, a driver fleeing from Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officials killed two street sweepers working for the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA).
The incident occurred when the driver attempted to evade arrest by losing control of the vehicle and ramming into sanitation workers stationed by the roadside.