Train pickers, use available resources to promote recycling, LAWMA boss tells FBRA
By Flourish Alonge
The MD/CEO of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni has said training and sensitization of pickers under the umbrella of the Association of Waste Pickers of Nigeria have become necessary.
He stated that the training has become paramount following the speed with which the recycling sector in the state is growing, in order to meet the plastics and other raw materials demand of the off-takers.
Mr. Odumboni gave the charge at the agency’s headquarters during a crucial meeting between the management of LAWMA and executive members of the Food and Beverages Recycling Alliance (FBRA), on Thursday 21st, 2022 which was held at the agency’s headquarters at Ijora Olopa,
Speaking further, the LAWMA boss said that it was important for all stakeholders in the recycling chain to be well equipped and prepared to take full advantage of the vast opportunities that are present in the sector.
Mr. Odumboni said that the Babajide Sanwo Olu Recycling Initiative launched three years ago is already attracting international investors and that a lot is expected to happen within the next few months.
“It is very important for us here to be of one voice and have a united front if we must advance this sector. In a few weeks, the Lagos State Recycling Initiative will be three years and a lot has been achieved in the last 3 years. But there is still a lot more to be done.
“And one of the things we must look at now is the training of these pickers. They are a very important and crucial part of the recycling chain and we must not confuse the pickers and cart pushers. We must work together to equip them through training and sensitization campaigns. With that, we have not only empowered them but strategically pushed back on the cart pushing menace in the state,” he said.
Speaking on the issue of branding, campaign and publicity, the LAWMA boss urged FBRA to do more with the resources and influence they have at their disposal to promote recycling in the state.
He advised that while the state government is working on the plastic policy, the association should team up with other stakeholders such as the Ocean Cleanup Initiative involved in the collection of plastics and other recyclables from the lagoon and waterfronts.
Executive Secretary of FBRA, Mrs. Agharese Onaghise speaking on behalf of the group reiterated the association’s commitment to the extensive cleanup exercise that is ongoing in the state.
She said FBRA is fully ready to work with LAWMA and incorporate all the suggestions and ideas that will promote recycling Lagos State.
