On December 18, 2024, the Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN), under the visionary leadership of our President, Comrade Salisu Ali Yarima, achieved a significant milestone by engaging in a strategic dialogue with the esteemed Director-General of the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC), Professor Nnanyelugo Martin Ike-Muonso, and other directors of the agency.
The meeting, held at RMRDC’s headquarters, was driven by a shared commitment to addressing the pressing challenges posed by unrecognized and ignored forms of waste that litter our streets, oceans, and waterways. This collaboration aligns seamlessly with RMRDC’s ongoing initiative to establish the Center for Circularity and Repurposing in Abuja, envisioned to become Africa’s center of excellence in raw material research and innovation.
Exploring New Frontiers in Waste Management
The primary agenda of the meeting was to advocate for the inclusion of waste fractions as a focal point in the Center’s research and development efforts. By leveraging cutting-edge innovations, the proposed center will pioneer impactful solutions to:
- Enhance circularity and sustainable resource utilization.
- Improve plastic waste recovery and recycling rates.
- Foster domestic industrial growth by repurposing waste into valuable raw materials.
- Integrate waste pickers into Nigeria’s environmental and economic frameworks, ensuring they are recognized as vital contributors to the nation’s circular economy.
Advancing WAPAN’s Mission
This collaboration underscores WAPAN’s unwavering commitment to empowering waste pickers and championing sustainability in Nigeria. By partnering with RMRDC, we aim to:
- Strengthen the capacities of waste pickers through skill development and integration into formal waste management systems.
- Drive innovations that align with global best practices in environmental sustainability.
- Create a cleaner and healthier environment for future generations.
Building a Sustainable Future Together
The meeting with RMRDC is a testament to the power of partnerships in tackling Nigeria’s environmental challenges. As we look forward to the impactful outcomes of this collaboration, WAPAN invites stakeholders from both the private and public sectors to join hands with us in building a sustainable future.
Together, we can foster a thriving circular economy, mitigate the effects of plastic waste, and unlock new economic opportunities for Nigeria. Let us work collectively to create a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable nation.
For more updates on our initiatives and how you can collaborate with us, stay connected with WAPAN. Together, we can make a difference.