FBRA Recovers 2.2 Tonnes of Recyclables in Ajegunle Community Drive
The Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA) has successfully recovered more than 2.2 tonnes of recyclable materials from the Ajegunle community in Lagos State. This significant achievement was part of the activities commemorating this year's Global Recycling Day, demonstrating a robust commitment to environmental sustainability and community involvement.
Community Engagement and Awareness Walk
The recycling exercise was conducted in collaboration with the collection partner, StreetWaste, at Achakpo Market. It attracted an impressive turnout of more than 500 participants, including over 250 households, which highlights the growing community engagement in recycling efforts across Nigeria. The event commenced with an awareness walk throughout Ajegunle, where officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority provided essential traffic control to ensure the safety of all participants.
During the walk, participants were sensitized on the critical importance of recycling and introduced to the buyback model. This innovative approach allows residents to exchange their recyclable waste for instant rewards, thereby incentivizing sustainable practices at the grassroots level.
Leadership Perspectives on Recycling and Development
Speaking at the event, FBRA Executive Director, Agharese Onaghise, emphasized that the initiative reflects the organization's dedication to linking environmental responsibility with community development. "FBRA exists at the intersection of industry responsibility and community wellbeing. What we demonstrated today in Ajegunle is that recycling is not a privilege reserved for affluent neighbourhoods, it is a right, a resource, and an opportunity for every Nigerian community," Onaghise stated.
Residents actively participated by turning in a diverse range of post-consumer materials, including:
- PET bottles
- Glass containers
- Aluminium cans
- Juice packs and cartons
The collected items were exchanged for products provided by FBRA member companies, reinforcing the principles of a circular economy and demonstrating tangible benefits for the community.
Government and Industry Collaboration
The event garnered substantial support from key government institutions, underscoring the collaborative efforts between public and private sectors. Representatives from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment and local government environmental officials were present, along with operational backing from the Lagos Waste Management Authority. Additionally, a representative from the Lagos State Government's climate office attended, highlighting the growing partnership between public agencies and private stakeholders in advancing sustainable waste management practices.
On behalf of FBRA member companies, John Isiekwene explained that the alliance is actively investing in Nigeria's circular economy and working closely with communities to drive environmental change. "The FBRA and its member companies are not standing on the sidelines of the circular economy conversation in Nigeria. We are investing in it, building it, and showing up for the communities that make it possible. Today is proof that industry can be a genuine partner in environmental transformation, and we are only just beginning," Isiekwene remarked.
Future Initiatives and National Impact
The Ajegunle exercise is part of FBRA's expanding activities across Lagos, following the recent inauguration of two recyclables collection centers developed in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization. The alliance has committed to continuing its promotion of recycling through comprehensive community programmes, active policy engagement, and strengthened industry collaboration. These efforts are aimed at transforming waste management practices nationwide, fostering a cleaner and more sustainable environment for all Nigerians.
