A nonprofit organisation, TechnoServe, has launched the second phase of its Plastic Recycling Program in Nigeria (PReP 2.0), backed by funding from The Coca-Cola Foundation, in a renewed push to scale plastic waste recovery, create jobs and deepen environmental sustainability across the country.

The new phase builds on the gains of the initial programme implemented in the south with a broader ambition to develop a more inclusive and commercially-viable recycling ecosystem while strengthening livelihoods nationwide.

Data from the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation highlights the urgency of the intervention, showing that Nigeria generates about 2.5 million metric tonnes of plastic waste yearly, with Lagos alone producing roughly 13,000 metric tonnes of solid waste daily, much of which ends up polluting communities and waterways.

Since its inception, the PReP initiative has recorded significant impact in Lagos and Anambra states, diverting over 59,000 metric tonnes of plastic waste, creating and improving 10,000 livelihoods, and establishing a network of 51 aggregators driving growth within the recycling value chain.

The programme has also supported women- and youth-led enterprises with equipment, training, and working capital.

Speaking on the launch, Country Director of TechnoServe Nigeria, Adesuwa Akinboro said the programme has transformed waste into economic opportunity, enabling collectors and aggregators to operate as structured businesses while improving community environments.

According to him, with PReP 2.0, operations will expand to Kano State alongside existing locations, with a target to generate an additional 2,400 jobs and divert 32,000 metric tonnes of plastic waste from the environment.

He pointed out that the initiative will focus on strengthening collaboration across the recycling value chain, improving efficiency among market players, and unlocking financing through partnerships with financial institutions, government agencies, and private sector stakeholders.

Also speaking on the unveiling, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, Carlos Pagoaga, noted that the programme aligns with the foundation’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community empowerment, adding that it will help reduce plastic waste, cut emissions, and support livelihoods at scale.

Beyond waste recovery, the programme will promote gender inclusion, environmental awareness, and behavioural change, positioning women and youth at the centre of Nigeria’s evolving recycling economy.

Stakeholders said PReP 2.0 underscored the growing role of public-private partnerships in addressing environmental challenges while unlocking economic value and building resilient communities.