The Federal Government has called on Nigerians to tap into the economic potential of recycling as a profitable business venture.
Speaking in Abuja at the launch of Recycling in Nigeria, a book authored by House of Representatives member Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, urged citizens to consider waste-to-wealth initiatives. Represented by his Chief of Staff, Chris Tarka, Akume highlighted the importance of learning from developed nations where recycling is a well-established industry.
“Recycling waste from dunghills is a significant business opportunity that has long been overlooked,” Akume stated. “It is also appropriate that the author is now opening our eyes to such an opportunity.”
Drawing attention to practices in other countries, Akume observed, “In many developed nations, you’ll find three separate trash cans outside homes and businesses—for newspapers, glass, and plastics—which are collected for recycling to reduce waste.”
Hon. Ugbor, who also serves as the Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, emphasized the importance of educating young Nigerians on the potential within the recycling sector, covering plastics, tyres, e-waste, metals, paper, and waste oil.
“It is high time Nigerians knew more about recycling, waste management, and the wealth potential within these areas,” Ugbor stated, expressing concern that many Nigerians were yet to take advantage of the opportunities within the recycling industry.
