Determined to protect the nation’s environment and safeguard public health, members of E-waste Relief Foundation (ERF) have empowered informal electronic waste handlers in Lagos.

In his speech, ERF President, Dr. Ifeanyi Ochonogor, said as the world becomes increasingly digital, the challenges of managing electronic waste have grown, and so also the opportunities.

He said: “Our vision with the Lagos e-waste Handlers Capacity Enhancement Programme (LEHCEP) is simple, yet powerful. It is to equip the real heroes on the ground, the handlers, with the right knowledge, skills, and best practices to turn waste into wealth and hazards into hope.”

He said the programme was beyond training, adding: “It is a movement. It is a call to action to protect our environment, to safeguard public health, and to empower every participant to be an agent of positive change in their communities.

“As we embark on today’s sessions, let us remember that the future of Lagos and indeed, Nigeria is in our hands. Together, we can ensure that our environment is not left behind in the march of technological advancement.”

In his presentation, Nnorum Innocent spoke on ‘Sustainable Lagos: Transforming e-waste into Opportunity and Innovation.’ He said: “While Lagos faces significant challenges in managing its growing e-waste problem, from weak enforcement and inadequate infrastructure, to dominance of informal recyclers, the city also holds immense potential to lead in sustainable innovation. By formalising recycling practices, integrating informal recyclers and leveraging modern technology, Lagos can transform its e-waste challenges.”