LAGOS - Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social impact vehicle of Sahara Group, recently commissioned its 15th Sahara Go Recycling hub in Ijede, Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos .

The development further underscores the Foundation's commitment to sustainable waste management, environmental protection, and community empowerment in Nigeria.

The Sahara Go-Recycling initiative is designed to promote a circular economy by reducing waste, fostering resource recovery, and empowering local communities with opportunities to earn income from recyclables.

At the commissioning, Chidilim Menakaya, Director, Sahara Group Foundation, said the launch of the Ijede Go-Recycling Hub is not just about environmental sustainability; but 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".

This underscores the Foundation's vision of inspiring a ripple effect of sustainable practices across communities.

Mokhtar Bounour, CEO of Egbin Power Plc, remarked, "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."

Speaking, Hon. Kabir Femi Kareem, Vice Chairman, Ijede Local Government, 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.

High Chief Mustapha Lasisi, Baale of Ipakan Community, Ijede, lauded the collaboration between Sahara Group Foundation, Egbin Power Plc, Ijede LCDA, and EcoBarter, describing the hub as a vital contribution to the well-being and livelihoods of Ijede 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 N50 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.

Mrs Ayodele Michael Oluwakemi, Council Manager, Ijede Local Government, called on 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".

Sahara Foundation Boosts Recycle Hubs