_By Abbas Nazil_
Ali Sabo’s name rings loud in Nigeria’s sustainability and waste management circle, and rightly so. Marking 23 years of consistent and impactful work in the recycling space, his dedication stands as a glowing beacon of environmental leadership.
From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most respected voices in the plastics recycling ecosystem, Mr. Sabo’s efforts have not only transformed waste into wealth but have also inspired a new wave of eco-consciousness within the country.
As one of the foundational members of WAPAN (Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria), his influence extends far beyond plastic management — it shapes the very narrative of circular economy practices in the region.
Over the past two decades, Mr. Sabo has pioneered numerous initiatives, turning challenges in waste into opportunities for job creation, cleaner environments, and community development. His innovative models of waste collection, segregation, and processing have served as a template for many emerging players in the industry.
He has built a strong legacy in plastics — from PET bottles to polythene recycling — creating scalable solutions that not only reduce pollution but also empower thousands of collectors and recyclers across the country.
His recycling plant has become a learning ground for many young Nigerians who seek greener paths to prosperity.
His journey even took him beyond Nigerian borders to Saudi Arabia, where he was invited to share his knowledge and witness global best practices in plastic recycling.
This international exposure broadened his perspective, refined his strategies, and reinforced the global relevance of his work. There, he engaged with leading environmental organizations and private sector leaders involved in recycling innovations.
He also established professional ties with international firms such as SABIC (Saudi Basic Industries Corporation), a global leader in petrochemicals and sustainable plastic solutions, and interacted with partners from Veolia and Suez Environment — firms known for their cutting-edge work in waste and water management.
These engagements opened up cross-border conversations on sustainable development and reinforced the value of Nigeria’s local knowledge on a global platform.
Yet, despite this international recognition, Mr. Sabo remains deeply rooted in his community, still working with local waste pickers, advocating for better policies, and pushing for a cleaner environment.
While his peers bask in his achievements, many lament that his wealth of knowledge remains under-leveraged by institutions that should be tapping into his vast experience.
His mentorship, if channeled into structured seminars, webinars, or policy advisory platforms, could serve as a national blueprint for youth engagement in sustainability.
This anniversary isn’t just a celebration of longevity—it is a call to action. Nigeria has in Mr. Sabo a living archive of knowledge on sustainable waste management, yet he is not being utilized to his full potential.
This underutilization echoes a larger systemic flaw: a nation that often celebrates excellence without creating structures for its transfer and sustainability.
Everyone is congratulating and celebrating, but how many have thought of organizing a paid masterclass, webinar, or collaborative workshop that ensures this knowledge translates into value — not just inspiration?
His journey reminds us of the many experts we’ve lost to international offers, and the danger of not institutionalizing knowledge before it’s gone.
As the country continues to grapple with environmental degradation, pollution, and youth unemployment, figures like Ali Sabo should be at the heart of policy, innovation, and community-based action.
In a country that too often overlooks its eco champions, Mr. Sabo’s 23-year milestone offers both inspiration and a sobering reminder.
If Nigeria must truly progress in sustainability, the wisdom and experience of champions like Ali Sabo must not only be honored but also documented, disseminated, and utilized as part of a long-term national vision.