Sahara Group Foundation commissions 17th recycling hub in Lagos

NIGERIA – Sahara Group Foundation has commissioned its 17th Sahara Go Recycling Hub in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, further expanding its community-based recycling network and reinforcing its focus on sustainable waste management, environmental protection and inclusive economic empowerment.

According to the Foundation, the new hub is designed to promote a circular economy by diverting recyclable waste from landfills, improving local resource recovery and enabling households to earn income through structured waste-to-wealth initiatives.

The Ibeju-Lekki facility extends access to organized recycling services in a fast-growing urban corridor where waste management infrastructure is under increasing pressure.

Located within the community, the hub encourages responsible waste disposal while allowing residents to exchange recyclable materials for financial rewards.

Notably, it is the second Sahara Go Recycling Hub to feature a solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine (RVM), highlighting the Foundation’s emphasis on integrating clean energy and innovation into grassroots sustainability programs.

The RVM enables residents to deposit recyclables conveniently and receive instant incentives, reinforcing positive environmental behaviour.

Speaking at the commissioning, Chidilim Menakaya, Director of Sahara Group Foundation, said the initiative reflects a people-centred approach to sustainability.

“The Sahara Go Recycling Hub in Ibeju-Lekki is more than a recycling point; it is a platform for dignity, livelihoods and environmental responsibility,” she said.

“By bringing structured recycling closer to communities, we are empowering residents to participate meaningfully in protecting their environment while creating economic value.”

The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Olowa Abdullahi Sesan, also underscored the importance of the hub to local residents, citing its strategic location and potential to support cleaner neighbourhoods while generating income opportunities.

The Ibeju-Lekki launch builds on the Foundation’s rapid expansion across Lagos. In September 2025, Sahara Group inaugurated its 15th Sahara Go Recycling Hub in Ijede, Ikorodu Local Government Area, located opposite Ijede General Hospital.

That facility joined a growing network of hubs across communities such as Ijora, Agege, Ikorodu and Lagos Island, offering residents cash incentives in exchange for plastics, cartons and aluminium cans.

Industry observers note that initiatives like Sahara Go Recycling align with broader efforts by corporate foundations and private sector players in Nigeria to address gaps in municipal waste management.

Lagos State has seen increased deployment of recycling hubs, buy-back centres and technology-enabled collection systems as authorities and businesses respond to rising plastic waste volumes and limited landfill capacity.

Across Africa, similar community-led models are gaining traction, often supported by digital payment platforms, reverse vending technologies and partnerships with recyclers and brand owners.

These approaches are increasingly viewed as critical to improving material recovery rates while delivering social impact.

With its growing footprint, Sahara Group Foundation positions the Sahara Go Recycling program as a scalable model that combines environmental stewardship with livelihood creation.

As Nigeria advances discussions around extended producer responsibility and circular economy frameworks, such initiatives are expected to play a more prominent role in strengthening local recycling ecosystems.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE