Sahara Group Foundation expands recycling hub to Ikorodu

Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social impact arm of Sahara Group, has inaugurated its 15th Sahara Go Recycling Hub in Ijede, Ikorodu LGA of Lagos.

According to a statement on Tuesday, the new facility, located opposite the Ijede General Hospital, extends the foundation’s network of 14 recycling hubs across the state.

The Sahara Go Recycling Initiative aims to promote a circular economy by reducing waste, fostering resource recovery, and empowering local communities to earn income from recyclables.

Speaking at the commissioning, Chidilim Menakaya, director of Sahara Group Foundation, said the project reflects the group’s vision of redefining value and transforming waste into wealth.

Menakaya added that the initiative will foster sustainable ecosystems and drive a circular economy in the country.

“The launch of the Ijede Go-Recycling Hub is not just about environmental sustainability; it is about redefining value, creating opportunities for economic empowerment, and building resilient communities that can lead the charge for sustainability,” Menakaya said.

“Every plastic bottle, aluminium can, or piece of paper recycled here marks a step toward a cleaner environment, stronger livelihoods, and a future where waste is transformed into wealth.”

The event was attended by Mokhtar Bounour, CEO of Egbin Power Plc; executives of Sahara Group, Ikeja Electric, and Egbin Power; representatives of the Ijede Local Council Development Area; hospital officials; traditional rulers; and community members.

Bounour described the initiative as one that strengthens public health and stimulates local economies.

“A cleaner Ijede means a healthier Ikorodu and ultimately a stronger Nigeria. This initiative has the power to enhance public health while stimulating economic empowerment for our people,” he said.

Kabir Femi Kareem, vice-chairman of Ijede LGA, commended Sahara Group Foundation and its partners, noting that the project would reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create job opportunities.

“When we transform our waste into resources, it improves our environment, reduces global warming, and saves energy,” he said.

Mustapha Lasisi, baale of Ipakan community, also lauded the project, describing it as a vital contribution to the well-being and livelihoods of residents.

Since its inception, the Sahara Go Recycling Initiative has reportedly collected over 500 tonnes of recyclable waste and facilitated payouts exceeding N50 million to beneficiaries, “positively impacting more than 1,000 households across Lagos”.

Implemented in partnership with Egbin Power Plc, Ijede LCDA, and EcoBarter, the Ijede hub provides residents with a convenient drop-off point for plastics, cartons, paper, and aluminium cans.

Participants can exchange their recyclables for incentives as part of a growing network that includes hubs in Ijora, Ikorodu, Festac, Oworonshoki, Agege, and other locations.

Roseline Idehai, representing EcoBarter, said the collaboration demonstrates how waste can be turned into opportunity.

“We allow people to use their waste as currency and get value for every waste recycled,” she said.

The foundation said it plans to expand the Go Recycling Initiative to more communities in Lagos and across Africa as part of its mission to “build sustainable communities through EXTRApreneurship”.