FG Launches Waste-to-Wealth Programme in Abuja

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced the training of youths in waste recycling and conversion of waste into renewable energy as part of efforts to promote sustainable and climate-smart solutions across the country.

The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, announced this at the launch of the programme in Abuja, stressing that the initiative aligns with the government’s agenda to empower young Nigerians with practical skills and jobs.

The programme, tagged “Waste to Wealth”, is an initiative of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development in collaboration with non-governmental organizations. It focuses on Waste collection and management, reduction of greenhouse gas emission, prevention of urban flooding and promotion of eco-friendly and climate-smart solutions

Olawande emphasized that the initiative will create sustainable jobs, enhance youth education, and provide decent livelihoods while also protecting the environment.

The Minister of State for Humanitarian Affairs, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, highlighted the multiple benefits of waste management, ranging from economic growth, environmental protection, agriculture support, climate change mitigation, to improved public health.

Other stakeholders, including Rinsola Abiola, Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Center, and Mr. Khalil Halilu, Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (represented by his special adviser on Renewable Energy, Mr. Muhammad Abdullahi), commended the initiative and pledged their support to ensure its success.