The Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEBP) in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) has launched the Jabi plastic waste collection center in the FCT which was funded by the government of Japan.
Director at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEBP), Kate Ogbonna while speaking at the event said the project stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through strong partnerships and shared commitment.
“The facility we are commissioning today was built in alliance with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and generously funded by the Government of Japan. The journey began on 6th December 2022, when the project officially commenced, marking the start of a collaborative effort that has now culminated in this modern recycling facility. Their support reflects a deep belief in the potential of Abuja to lead in environmental innovation and circular economy development.
“For AEPB, this facility is a major step forward in strengthening our waste management system. It will help reduce plastic pollution, promote recycling, create green jobs and support our long-term environmental protection goals. It also reinforces our mandate to safeguard public health and ensure a clean and orderly environment for all residents of the FCT,” she said
Also speaking, Director and Representative, UNIDO sub-regional office, Amb. Philbert Johnson noted that the project addresses concerns of plastic waste by promoting circular economy principles, reducing, reusing, and recycling to strengthen plastic value chains and minimize leakage, aligning with Nigeria’s National Policy on Plastic Waste Management.
He added, “Since 2022, UNIDO has worked with AEPB to ensure the project is delivered and will serve as a viable tool for MSME involved in the recycling business.”
Similarly, Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, HE Hideo Suzuki disclosed that “Japan, through its Supplementary Budget, funded this UNIDO-led initiative with USD 2,157,000. This project encompasses three interconnected outputs: developing federal implementation guidelines; enhancing municipal recycling capacities with equipment and pilots; and demonstrating resource-efficient practices in the private sector.
“Today’s handover focuses on the second output, delivering essential tools, such as containers, shredders, and tricycles to the AEPB Pilot Plastic Waste Collection Centre. Building on baseline assessments, awareness seminars, and trainer-of-trainers workshops, this facility will enable trial operations, data collection on waste volumes, and scalable models, benefiting waste workers and residents alike,” he added.
While commissioning the center, the minister of environment, Mal. Balarabe Abbas Lawal noted that the center will serve as a reference point to boost plastic recycling and drive economic growth.