French Embassy, Nile University launch plastic recycling micro-plant as Nigeria grapples with 32MT annual waste crisis

NIGERIA – The French Embassy in Nigeria and Nile University, Abuja, have launched a plastic recycling micro-plant to tackle pollution and promote waste-to-wealth, as Nigeria generates over 32 million tonnes of solid waste annually.

The project, unveiled during the French Embassy Fund Microplant Commissioning Ceremony in Abuja, is expected to strengthen research, entrepreneurship, and sustainable waste management practices within Nigerian universities and surrounding communities.

Stakeholders described the initiative as a practical response to Nigeria’s growing plastic pollution crisis, which contributes to blocked drainage systems, flooding, and environmental degradation in major cities.

Universities as Centres for Circular Innovation

Vice Chancellor of Nile University, Prof. Dilli Dogo, explained that the partnership reflected the French Embassy’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s educational sector beyond diplomatic relations. 

He noted that universities must increasingly become centres for innovation and practical solutions capable of addressing national challenges, including unemployment and environmental pollution. 

According to him, recyclable materials widely regarded as waste could become economic assets if properly harnessed, stating that what is often dismissed as waste is actually a valuable resource.

Dogo explained that the university had intensified efforts towards vocational and entrepreneurial education to equip young Nigerians with practical skills capable of creating jobs and reducing dependence on imported labour.

Collective Action Against Plastic Pollution

French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, represented by the Deputy Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of France, Pierre Andriamampianina, said the recycling project aligned with global efforts to curb plastic pollution and encourage sustainable living. 

He noted that the initiative would help drive awareness, innovation, and behavioural change among students and researchers, and that Nigeria’s plastic waste challenge requires collective action involving governments, educational institutions, and development partners.

The envoy added that the micro-plant would not only improve the campus environment but also serve as a hub for experimentation, research, and the production of reusable materials.

A Hub for Experimentation and Entrepreneurship

Managing Consultant at Weircapacity, Nyananso Ekanem, described universities as critical institutions in addressing global environmental and economic crises, noting that plastic pollution had become a worldwide emergency with only a small percentage recycled.

Ekanem said Nigeria’s annual solid waste generation posed serious environmental and public health risks if left unmanaged. 

The organisers said the initiative would encourage students and researchers to develop local solutions capable of transforming plastic waste into reusable products and economic opportunities.

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