Lagos:Waste pickers in Lagos have urged for more robust recycling policies to improve livelihoods and foster cleaner communities as Nigeria celebrates its 66th Independence anniversary.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Mr. Friday Oku, President of the Association of Scrap and Waste Pickers of Lagos State (ASWOL), emphasized the importance of developments in Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), plastic-waste management, and the circular economy. He noted that these areas have opened opportunities for waste-sector operators, with the Federal Government focusing on environmental regulation and combating plastic pollution during the initial years of the Tinubu administration.
Oku highlighted a gap between policy development and implementation, pointing out the need for collaboration among government levels for effective waste management. He recognized progress in EPR, plastic-waste management, e-waste, and circular-economy initiatives, stressing the significance of producers taking responsibility for their products post-consumption. The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency has recognized EPR arrangements for plastics, used tyres, e-waste, and used batteries.
He also mentioned the National Policy on Plastic Waste Management and the GEF-funded Circular Solutions to Plastic Pollution in Nigeria project as key Federal Government initiatives. Additionally, he referenced the National Environmental (Battery Control) Regulations, 2024, as another development, emphasizing the importance of enforcing regulations against non-compliant recycling facilities for safer recycling practices.
Oku cautioned against declaring significant nationwide improvements in recycling without adequate evidence, noting Nigeria’s export of 5.85 million kilogrammes of plastic waste and scrap in 2024 as an indicator of recyclables entering markets. However, he highlighted the need for reliable national waste data to measure the overall impact of government interventions effectively.
He called for greater investment in waste infrastructure, source separation, and stronger recycling systems in cities and communities. Emphasizing the benefits of separating recyclable materials at the source, Oku advocated for enhanced EPR implementation, with producers contributing to the collection and recycling of products in the Nigerian market.
Oku also stressed the potential contribution of waste pickers to material recovery if they receive proper recognition and support. He advocated for training, safety equipment, access to finance, and opportunities for informal operators in recognized waste-management programs. He also pushed for more investment in recycling enterprises to boost material recovery and create green jobs.
The ASWOL president urged for the establishment of clear national targets on waste management aspects, including recycling, open dumping, and the regulation of recycling facilities. He highlighted the need for public, verifiable targets that reflect what is happening within communities, rather than merely policy announcements.
Oku concluded by emphasizing the necessity of transitioning from a waste disposal system to one focused on prevention and recovery, noting that Nigeria possesses the human resources required for such a shift. He called for stronger implementation, investment, and coordination to move towards a circular economy.