Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social impact arm of Sahara Group, has deepened its commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment with the commissioning of its 15th Sahara Go Recycling Hub in Ijede, Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos State.
The new hub, strategically located opposite the General Hospital in Ijede, marks another milestone in the Foundation’s ongoing effort to promote responsible waste management, encourage recycling, and build a circular economy across Lagos.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Director of Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya, described the project as a blend of environmental and economic transformation designed to empower communities and protect the planet.
She said, “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 noted that every recyclable item collected, from plastic bottles to aluminium cans and paper, contributes to a cleaner environment and stronger livelihoods.
“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,” she said, adding that the initiative continues to inspire a ripple effect of sustainable practices across communities.
Chief Executive Officer of Egbin Power Plc, Mokhtar Bounour, reaffirmed Sahara Group’s commitment to translating sustainability goals into concrete action.
He said, “At Sahara, Egbin, Ikeja Electric and across all our businesses, we don’t just say it, we transform it in action, making a difference and doing it from our heart to ensure that communities are empowered.
“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.”
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of Ijede Local Government, Hon. Kabir Femi Kareem, who represented the Executive Chairman, emphasising the project’s importance to residents.
“The essence of this project is environmental sustainability and value creation. When we transform our waste into resources, it improves our environment, reduces greenhouse gases and global warming, and creates job opportunities while saving energy,” he said, urging residents to key into the initiative and reduce improper waste disposal.
Since its inception, the Sahara Go Recycling Initiative has collected more than 500 tonnes of recyclable waste and facilitated payouts exceeding N50 million to beneficiaries. It has also positively impacted over 1,000 households, providing alternative income streams, supporting livelihoods, and reinforcing environmental sustainability across Lagos.
The Ijede hub was implemented in partnership with Egbin Power Plc, Ijede Local Council Development Area (LCDA), and EcoBarter, serving as a convenient drop-off point where residents can exchange plastics, cartons, paper, and aluminium cans for incentives.
The initiative already operates successfully in several Lagos communities including Ijora, Ikorodu, Agege, Festac, Onigbongbo, Lagos Island, Oworonshoki, Ikotun, Apapa, Igbogbo Baiyeku, Kosofe, Ifako-Ijaye, and Navy Town.
