Sahara Group Foundation Expands Go Recycling Hubs to Drive Green Growth and Community Empowerment
csrreporters 
Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social sustainability arm of Sahara Group, has strengthened its commitment to environmental protection and circular economy development with the launch of its 15th Go-Recycling Hub in Ijede, Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The newly commissioned hub, strategically located opposite the General Hospital in Ijede, marks another milestone in the Foundation’s mission to promote sustainable waste management, resource recovery, and economic empowerment for local communities.
The Sahara Go-Recycling Initiative seeks to transform waste into wealth by encouraging recycling, reducing environmental pollution, and providing residents with opportunities to earn income through the collection of recyclables such as plastics, cartons, paper, and aluminium cans.
Speaking at the commissioning, Chidilim Menakaya, Director of Sahara Group Foundation, said the initiative represents more than environmental action, it’s a catalyst for social change.
“The Ijede Go Recycling Hub is about redefining value and creating economic opportunities. Every bottle or can recycled here brings us closer to cleaner communities, stronger livelihoods, and a sustainable future,” Menakaya said.
The event drew stakeholders from Sahara Group companies, including Egbin Power Plc and Ikeja Electric, as well as representatives from the Ijede Local Government, traditional leaders, and residents.
Mokhtar Bounour, CEO of Egbin Power Plc, commended the Foundation’s vision, noting that the initiative reflects Sahara’s broader purpose driven commitment to sustainability.
“A cleaner Ijede means a healthier Ikorodu and a stronger Nigeria,” Bounour said. “Through this initiative, we’re improving public health and creating economic opportunities that uplift entire communities.”
Hon. Kabir Femi Kareem, Vice Chairman of Ijede LCDA, praised the hub’s impact, describing it as “a vital step toward environmental sustainability and value creation.” He urged residents to embrace the project as a community-driven solution to improper waste disposal and unemployment.
Since inception, the Sahara Go-Recycling Initiative has collected over 500 tonnes of recyclable waste, distributed ₦50 million in payouts, and impacted more than 1,000 households across Lagos.
High Chief Mustapha Lasisi, Baale of Ipakan Community, lauded the partnership among Sahara Group Foundation, Egbin Power Plc, Ijede LCDA, and EcoBarter for improving livelihoods while protecting the environment.
Roseline Idehai, representing EcoBarter, added that the project empowers people to see waste as a source of value.
“We allow people to use their waste as currency, turning everyday materials into income and opportunity,” she said.
The Ijede hub joins an expanding network of Go-Recycling locations in communities such as Ijora, Ikorodu, Agege, Festac, Onigbongbo, Lagos Island, Oworonshoki, Ikotun, Apapa, Igbogbo Baiyeku, Kosofe, Ifako-Ijaye, and Navy Town.
Reaffirming the Foundation’s long-term vision, Menakaya said:
“The Go-Recycling project is sparking a ripple effect across Lagos enabling households to see value in responsible waste management and inspiring sustainable change. Through partnerships and community action, we are building ecosystems that work for people and the planet.”
Sahara Group Foundation plans to expand the Go-Recycling Initiative across Nigeria and into other parts of Africa as part of its EXTRApreneurship philosophy using collaboration and innovation to build sustainable communities.