Lagos, November 12, 2024.

As part of its ongoing plans to integrate a sense of waste to value in Lagosians, the Lagos State Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE), has partnered with Women in Export Trade and Investment (WETI) to demonstrate the transformative potential of recycling during a landmark community engagement event in Ajah.  

The event, which coincided with WETI’s official inauguration, highlighted the synergy between sustainability, financial empowerment, and waste management, showcasing how circular economy practices can deliver both environmental and economic benefits. 

Central to the event was an innovative waste collection and reward system. Community members were encouraged to recycle materials such as textiles, plastics, and cartons in exchange for financial incentives. This initiative provided immediate rewards for recycling efforts, with participants earning amounts ranging from ₦5,320 to ₦36,000. In one case, a participant used part of their reward to purchase cooking gas, underlining the tangible benefits of recycling for everyday needs. 

Speaking on the initiative, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Government on Climate Change and Circular Economy, emphasized the significance of community engagement in achieving Lagos’s sustainability goals. “Recycling is not just about reducing waste; it’s about creating value for our communities,” she said. “Through partnerships like this with Weti, we are demonstrating that sustainability and economic empowerment go hand in hand, transforming waste into opportunities that improve lives and protect our environment.” 

This initiative aligns seamlessly with OCCE’s flagship Eco-Circulate program, which promotes sustainable waste management practices across Lagos. By extending the reach of Eco-Circulate through its collaboration with Weti, OCCE is driving community-led waste valorization efforts, creating new financial opportunities while advancing environmental sustainability. 

Weti, a social enterprise dedicated to empowering women through trade and investment, reinforced its commitment to economic inclusion during the event. By equipping women with the tools and resources needed to thrive in various industries, Weti aims to empower 200 women annually in export-focused ventures. This mission supports Nigeria’s broader non-oil export objectives while contributing to a more inclusive and gender-responsive economy. 

Beyond the immediate local impact, the partnership between OCCE and Weti resonates with global sustainability priorities. Their efforts directly align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). By integrating recycling into everyday community life, they are advancing responsible production practices while creating pathways for economic empowerment and reduced inequality.