The Jigawa State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has launched a transformative Waste-to-Wealth initiative to equip 600 women with skills in waste upcycling, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment.
Announced during the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration in Dutse, this initiative aims to bridge the gender gap in green entrepreneurship, providing women with the tools to convert waste into marketable products while promoting sustainability and climate action.
Empowering Women Through Waste Management and Upcycling
Speaking at the event, Mr. Adamu Sambo, Managing Director of the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency (JISEPA), emphasized the importance of integrating women into sustainable economic opportunities.
“We want to ensure that more women in Jigawa State can participate and benefit from the waste-to-wealth program. Women play a crucial role in environmental conservation, and empowering them with upcycling skills will drive economic growth and sustainability,” Sambo stated.
The Waste-to-Wealth training is designed to provide participants with skills in plastic recycling, eco-friendly product creation, and sustainable business development.
Read also: NEDC Empowers 300 Scavengers with Briquette Machines to Tackle Waste and Boost Economic Growth in Borno
Digital Learning and Economic Inclusion via YOMA
A key component of this initiative is the Youth Opportunities Marketplace (YOMA)—a UNICEF-backed digital platform that connects young people with learning, earning, and social impact opportunities.
Through YOMA, participants will gain access to:
- Online courses on sustainability and business development
- Mentorship programs to guide their entrepreneurship journey
- Skill-building challenges to enhance their digital and economic prospects
“YOMA will equip young women with the tools they need to tap into real-world economic opportunities beyond their immediate environment,” Sambo noted.
Women Leading Environmental Sustainability
The Wife of Jigawa State Governor, Amina Namadi, praised the program, emphasizing that empowering women in environmental sustainability will yield long-term economic and ecological benefits.
She encouraged the trainees to leverage their newfound skills to create income-generating businesses while mitigating climate change.
JISEPA also acknowledged the Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN) and other key stakeholders for their support in ensuring the program’s success.
With this initiative, the Jigawa State Government continues its commitment to women’s empowerment, environmental conservation, and green entrepreneurship, paving the way for a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
