Abuja: An NGO, the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), has called for the expansion of community-based waste management and a waste-to-wealth initiative in Nigeria. David, a representative from GIFSEP, emphasized that the lessons from this project could significantly aid Nasarawa and the broader Nigerian community in transitioning from a linear ‘take, use, and dump’ economy to a circular economy where resources are recovered, reused, and transformed into value.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the project, although nearing its conclusion, has laid a foundation that GIFSEP hopes will continue to thrive. David highlighted the project’s achievements in producing compost, empowering women, transforming coconut shells, sharing knowledge, and developing policy, which he envisions will contribute to a larger movement. He noted that waste, when properly managed, could offer environmental and economic opportunities, rather than being a mere problem.
The project supported the production of nutrient-rich compost and liquid fertilizer, while discarded coconut shells were repurposed into reusable household products. David explained that these interventions underscore the connection between effective waste management, environmental protection, and the circular economy. He proudly announced a collaboration with the Nasarawa State Government to develop the Nasarawa State Integrated Waste Management Policy 2026, marking the first such policy since the state’s inception 29 years ago.
David further elaborated that the policy aims to enhance waste collection, segregation, recycling, resource recovery, and safe disposal, all while promoting a circular economy, healthier communities, job creation, and waste-to-wealth opportunities. He expressed pride in how local actions have influenced broader systems and policies and extended gratitude to the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme for their support.
He also recognized the Nasarawa State Government and the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources for their partnership, and acknowledged the Agwan Doka II Women Cooperative as active partners in the project. David urged stakeholders to ensure that the project’s knowledge and successes are documented, shared, and replicated across other communities.
Dr. Ibironke Olubamise, the National Coordinator of the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme, emphasized the importance of grassroots environmental initiatives and urged communities to sustain the initiative for maximum environmental and economic benefit. She highlighted the potential for similar projects to transform communities and provide international recognition and awards.
Dr. Mohamed Bello, Director-General of the Nasarawa State Waste Management and Sanitation Authority, affirmed plans to develop an integrated waste management policy for Nasarawa State, which has already been well-received by the state government. He commended the BioWaste4Resilience project for equipping communities with practical knowledge on biowaste conversion.
Chief Zaki Solomon from the Angwa Doka II Project Community praised GIFSEP’s contributions, expressing gratitude for the organization’s ongoing efforts and commitment to community development.