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The Pan African Vision for the Environment (PAVE) recently organized a two-day capacity-building workshop for waste pickers in Lagos State. The event, held from May 14 to May 15, 2025, was part of the Zero Waste Ambassadors Project under the Multi-solving Action to Methane Reduction in Nigeria (MAMRN) initiative.
Promoting Sustainability Through Organic Waste Management
The workshop focused on organic waste management, a crucial element in addressing climate change and environmental degradation. Mr. Anthony Akpan, President of PAVE, emphasized the importance of transforming organic waste into compost and bio-inputs, which enhances both environmental health and economic empowerment.
- Organic waste can be a source of income
- Compost production reduces methane emissions
- Cleaner environments support public health
He noted that improved waste handling practices contribute to climate change mitigation, poverty alleviation, and the creation of green jobs.
Recognizing Waste Pickers as Key Economic Players
According to Akpan, PAVE partnered with the Association of Scraps and Waste Pickers of Lagos (ASWOL) to advocate for the formal recognition of waste pickers. Despite their essential role, many waste pickers remain marginalized and underpaid.
“They contribute to urban cleanliness, aesthetics, and sustainability,” Akpan stated. “However, they lack access to fair income, healthcare, and social protection.”
Expert Presentations on Innovative Waste Solutions
During the session, Aghaji Ujunwa Victoria trained attendees on best practices in organic waste management, including:
- Waste sorting and segregation
- Recycling techniques
- Methane reduction strategies
She stressed that these methods not only conserve resources but also recover value from discarded materials.
Similarly, Abiola Adegoke Saheed introduced the Black Soldier Fly (BSF) method—a sustainable approach to converting organic waste into protein-rich biomass and natural fertilizer.
Read also: Waste as Wealth: How Sustainable Practices Can Drive Nigeria’s Economic Growth
Collaboration, Networking, and Inclusion as Catalysts
Philip Jakpo, Executive Director of Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), encouraged participants to attend more workshops and engage in networking to enhance their knowledge.
Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director of SRADev Nigeria, called on the government to invest more in inclusive waste management policies. He identified waste pickers as vital actors in the circular economy.
Friday Oku, ASWOL President, highlighted the daily risks faced by waste pickers. He urged policymakers to involve them in decision-making processes and provide incentives to improve working conditions.
Sustainability and Philanthropy Drive Economic Growth
By equipping waste pickers with knowledge and tools, initiatives like this not only support environmental sustainability but also fuel economic growth. With better policies, recognition, and investment, Nigeria can create a greener economy where no one is left behind.
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