A recycling company in Nigeria, Chanja Datti Recycling Co. Ltd, has intensified efforts to promote plastic recycling and environmental responsibility through its newly launched plastic collection centre in Jabi, Abuja.
The initiative is part of renewed efforts to advance environmental sustainability and economic empowerment.
Speaking during an awareness campaign at the facility, the Head of Innovation and Strategy at Chanja Datti, Mr. Gabriel Onyebuolise, said the initiative is rooted in the principles of the circular economy, a system focused on reducing waste while creating value from recyclable materials.
According to him, “recycling presents enormous opportunities not only for preserving the environment but also for creating jobs, generating income, and encouraging responsible waste management practices among residents.”
“This initiative is all about the circular economy. We understand there are many opportunities in preserving the environment, and we can unlock a lot through recycling,” he said.
The newly operational plastic collection centre in Jabi was established through a partnership involving AEPB and UNIDO, with Chanja Datti managing the facility. The centre is designed to encourage residents to bring recyclable plastics in exchange for financial rewards.
Mr Onyebuolise, highlighted that common household plastics such as PET bottles, HDPE containers, polypropylene materials, plastic chairs, bottled water containers, and soft drink bottles are all recyclable and can be exchanged at the center.
“It’s not just about the reward. People must understand that preserving the environment is a collective responsibility. Once you consume something, it is your duty to ensure it does not end up polluting the environment.” he said.
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Mr Onyebuolise, identified poor public awareness as one of the biggest challenges facing recycling efforts in Nigeria.
He said; “People need to understand that waste should go into waste bins and recyclable materials should be properly sorted. That’s why we continue to invest heavily in awareness campaigns.”
Sensitisation
The Head of Programmes & Partnership, Chanja Datti, Miss Martha Eginiwin said the NGO has continued to sensitise communities on the economic and environmental benefits of recycling.
“Through awareness campaigns, more people are beginning to understand that waste can generate income through green jobs rather than simply being discarded,” Eginiwin explained.
However, she stressed the need for stronger government policies and better structures that both encourage and compel citizens to adopt proper waste management practices.
Eginiwin stated that every decision to recycle creates employment opportunities for different groups of people, including waste collectors, logistics operators, factory workers, machine operators, and women involved in sourcing recyclable materials.
Head of Unit, Resource Recovery, and Chief Environmental Engineer, Abuja Environmental Protection Board AEPB, Mrs Sherifat Lawal said the AEPB is actively promoting environmental awareness and sustainability through partnerships and community engagement.
Represented by Mrs Eyo Maureen Chidinma, she said the AEPB is committed to collaborating with stakeholders in Chad and the Dead Sea region to ensure that environmental protection efforts are successfully implemented.
“These collaborations are aimed at encouraging responsible practices that support long-term ecological balance and community well-being,” she explained.
She noted that the AEPB is working closely with local communities to create awareness about environmental conservation and the importance of collective action.
