As the world celebrates Workers’ Day on May 1, 2026, informal waste pickers, operating under the aegis of the Association of Scraps and Wastepickers of Lagos State (ASWOL), said they stand in solidarity with workers across all sectors while drawing attention to their “critical yet often overlooked role in society”.
“Every day, thousands of waste pickers work tirelessly across communities, recovering recyclable materials, reducing environmental pollution, and contributing significantly to the circular economy. Despite these contributions, we continue to operate under harsh conditions – facing stigma, low income, lack of social protection, and limited access to health and safety support,” submitted Comrade Friday Oku, the ASWOL President, in a statement made available to EnviroNews.
He called on government authorities, private sector stakeholders, and the general public to recognise waste picking as legitimate work.
“We urge for inclusive policies that integrate waste pickers into formal waste management systems, ensure fair compensation, and provide access to healthcare, safety equipment, and financial support,” he stated, adding:
“There can be no true sustainability without waste pickers. Our work keeps cities cleaner, reduces landfill pressure, and supports livelihoods. It is time our voices are heard, our dignity respected, and our contributions valued.”