Sabi Recycling Project Drives Community Transformation in Ajeromi-Ifelodun and Ifelodun LCDA
Kathy Kyari
The Sabi Recycling Project, an initiative of the African Cleanup Initiative supported by ACT Foundation, is making a remarkable impact in Ajeromi-Ifelodun LGA and Ifelodun LCDA of Lagos State. Conceived as an eco-friendly solution to the challenges of plastic waste and environmental degradation, the project is now a thriving model of community empowerment, environmental awareness, and local resilience.
The Executive Director, African Cleanup Initiative, ACI, Dr Alex Akhigbe in a statement on Thursday said the project which is a model for grassroots led environmental sustainability, was designed to educate residents on recycling practices and promote waste sorting at the household level.
"Spanning 11 communities, Residents men, women, and youth have embraced the initiative not only as a means to reduce pollution, but also as a pathway to economic support and basic needs fulfilment through the value chain of recycling incentives."
"To date, the project has successfully recovered over 400,086 kilograms of recyclable materials. Additionally, more than 6,000 individuals have been indirectly empowered, while 2,130 people have received direct support through training programs, community engagement efforts, and access to recycling infrastructure."
According to the statement, the figures reflect more than environmental progress they capture the essence of a community transformed.
“This project is not just cleaning the environment it is changing lives, building sustainable habits, and igniting a new culture of environmental responsibility.”
Central to the initiative’s success has been the unwavering support and leadership of community stakeholders, including Mrs. Funmilayo Ejide, Director, Lagos State Ministry of Environment, Hon. Ismaila Sanni, Chairman, Ajeromi Ifelodun Community Development Council, Mr. Sesan Idris, Head of Department, Environment, Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA, Mr. Tokunbo Molade, Chairman, Dankaka Community Development Area, Azeez Nurudeen, Secretary, Ifelodun Community Development Council, Balogun Ibrahim, Baale of Amukoko, Ifelodun and Mr. Lawal Ademola, Coordinator, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ifelodun Chapter
According to Dr Akhigbe, their dedication and strategic involvement have anchored the project's achievements and sustained its momentum.
“This movement would not have been possible without the unwavering commitment of community leaders who stood at the forefront of this environmental revolution.”
He emphasized that beyond waste collection, the Sabi Recycling Project represents a broader movement where communities reclaim their environments, strengthen local leadership, and drive lasting change.
“The Sabi Recycling Project is not a one time initiative. It is a movement, a model, and a message that sustainability starts at home, in our neighbourhoods, and with our people.”
In Ajeromi-Ifelodun and Ifelodun LCDA, the project continues to serve as a compelling example of what is possible when innovation, grassroots leadership, and collective action come together a future that is cleaner, greener, and more empowered.
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