Izuchukwu Mayor, Lagos
Sahara Group Foundation, has inaugurated its 15th Sahara Go Recycling hub in Ijede, Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos State, further underscoring its commitment to sustainable waste management, environmental protection, and community empowerment in Nigeria.
The Foundation, the corporate social impact vehicle of the Sahara Group, said the new hub, strategically located opposite the General Hospital in Ijede, extends its growing recycling campaign, building on the success of 14 hubs already established across Lagos.
The Sahara Go Recycling initiative, it said in a statement, is designed to promote a circular economy by reducing waste, fostering resource recovery, and empowering local communities with opportunities to earn income from recyclables.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Managing Director, Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya, was quoted as saying: “The launch of the Ijede Go-Recycling Hub is not just about environmental sustainability; it is about redefining value, creating opportunities for economic empowerment, and building resilient communities that can lead the charge for sustainability.
“Every plastic bottle, aluminium can, or piece of paper recycled here marks a step toward a cleaner environment, stronger livelihoods, and a future where waste is transformed into wealth,” underscoring the Foundation’s vision of inspiring a ripple effect of sustainable practices across communities.
The event was attended by some of the top Group subsidiaries’ management, council executives, traditional leaders and residents and a host of other dignitaries.
CEO of Egbin Power Plc, Mokhtar Bounour, was quoted as saying: “At Sahara, Egbin, Ikeja Electric and across all our businesses, we don’t just say it, we transform it in action, making a difference and doing it from our heart to ensure that communities are empowered.
“A cleaner Ijede means a healthier Ikorodu and ultimately a stronger Nigeria. This initiative has the power to enhance public health while stimulating economic empowerment for our people.”
The Ijede Go-Recycling Hub is not just about environmental sustainability; it is about redefining value, creating opportunities for economic empowerment, and building resilient communities that can lead the charge for sustainability.
Charge to residents
The Council’s Vice Chairman, Kabir Femi Kareem, representing the Executive Chairman, emphasised the hub’s importance to Ijede residents, especially given its strategic location.
“The essence of this project is environmental sustainability and value creation. When we transform our waste into resources, it is a symbiosis, improving our environment, reducing greenhouse gases and global warming. Ultimately, we are creating job opportunities and saving energy.”
He implored all Ijede residents to key into the project and minimise improper waste disposal.
Baale of Ipakan Community, Ijede, Mustapha Lasisi, commended the collaboration between the Sahara Group Foundation, Egbin Power Plc, Ijede LCDA, and EcoBarter.
He described the hub as a vital contribution to the well-being and livelihoods of residents, especially because of the economic value it provides.
Since its inception, the Sahara Go Recycling Initiative has collected over 500 tonnes of recyclable waste and facilitated payouts exceeding ₦50 million to beneficiaries.
The program has positively impacted more than 1000 households, creating alternative income streams, supporting livelihoods, and reinforcing environmental sustainability.
The new hub in Ijede was implemented in partnership with Egbin Power Plc, Ijede LCDA, and EcoBarter.
It provides a convenient drop-off point for recyclable materials, including plastics, cartons, paper, and aluminium cans.
Residents are encouraged to exchange waste for incentives at the hub – joining a growing network of locations across Lagos, such as Ijora, Ikorodu, Agege, Festac, Onigbongbo, Lagos Island, Oworonshoki, Ikotun, Apapa, Igbogbo Baiyeku, Kosofe, Ifako-Ijaye, and Navy Town.
Council Manager, Ijede Local Government, Mrs Ayodele Oluwakemi, called on the residents to embrace the initiative, sort their waste and turn in the recyclables to the hub in exchange for value, noting that this will contribute to a cleaner, greener Ijede.
Roseline Idehai, representing Eco Barter, added: “At Eco Barter, we believe waste is not a problem, but an opportunity. Our partnership with Sahara Group Foundation ensures this opportunity becomes a sustainable reality, empowering individuals and inspiring collective action toward a cleaner Lagos. We allow people to use their waste as currency and get value for every waste recycled.”
Meanwhile, Ms. Menakaya noted that “The Sahara Go Recycling project is creating a ripple effect across Lagos, enabling households and communities to see value in responsible waste management. Through strategic partnerships, we are amplifying impact and building sustainable ecosystems for future generations.”
“At Sahara Group Foundation, we believe in EXTRApreneurship, building sustainable ecosystems through collaborations that inspire change. With Ijede now part of our network, we are one step closer to a truly circular economy in Nigeria,” she concluded.
