An urban lab project initiated to address solid waste management challenges in Abuja Municipal Area Council, AMAC, Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria, has been launched.
The project which launched in Nile University, Abuja is aimed at raising awareness on responsible waste disposal and recycling towards sustainable urban development is an initiative of the Covenant of Mayors in Sub-Saharan Africa (CoM SSA) in partnership with the Nile University, the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), with the support of the European Union.
The project is “aimed to revolutionize waste management practices through innovative and forward-thinking solutions.”
The Urban Lab also seeks to raise awareness about responsible waste disposal and recycling by leveraging strategic partnerships to create a sustainable and efficient waste governance system.
This initiative also seeks to enhance community awareness about waste issues and promote environmental sustainability through strategic partnerships and innovative waste management solutions.
The launch of the programme witnessed the gathering of various key stakeholders in the public sector, informal and formal private sectors, academia, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), professional associations, donor agencies, and traditional institutions to share ideas on waste disposal management.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of Nile University, Professor Dilli Dogo, disclosed that the launch of the Abuja Urban Lab signifies a transformative journey towards sustainable waste governance and create a blueprint for other cities across Nigeria to follow.
Delivering his keynote address, the Director General of the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), Braimah Osilama, said the agency is proud to be part of the collaborative effort, as the Urban Lab initiative aligns with the agency’s commitment to building a cleaner and greener Abuja.
The Component Lead Enabling Environment for Energy Efficiency Investments at the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, Joshua Garba, explained that the collaboration between CoM SSA and Nile University has laid the groundwork for transformative change in waste management practices.
He expressed optimism for massive support in the implementation of a governance framework for waste management in Abuja.
The Programme Manager, Energy and Circular Economy, European Union, EU, said the bloc has been an important partner to the Nigerian environment sector.
He said “the EU will continue to support Nigeria in strengthening its environmental policy and regulatory framework in addressing the issue of waste in Nigeria.”
In the message the Chairman, Abuja Municipal Area Council, AMAC, Zakka Maikalangu, said, “the initiative represents a collaborative effort towards innovative solutions and community engagement.”
During the event, participants contributed various ideas for developing and implementing a suitable governance framework for the city.
The event provided attendees, including media members, government officials, environmental advocates, and the public, the opportunity to contribute towards effective, efficient, and improved waste management systems in the Abuja Municipal Area Council.
The project will raise awareness on responsible waste disposal and recycling and address solid waste management challenges.
Shakirat Sadiq
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