French Embassy partners 13 Nigerian universities on plastic waste management

By George George Idowu

The French Embassy in Nigeria, through its Cooperation and Cultural Department, has initiated a €753,000 plastic waste management project involving 13 Nigerian universities.

The project aims to develop innovative ideas to reduce plastic waste and enhance sustainable practices on campuses. The initiative, funded under the French Embassy Fund, is set to be fully implemented by December 2025.

The participating universities are Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Bayero University, Kano, Nile University of Nigeria, Covenant University, Babcock University, University of Jos, Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ibadan, University of Lagos, Yaba Technology, University of Calabar, University of Nsukka, and University of Delta.

Speaking at the inaugural steering committee meeting in Abuja, Acting French Ambassador to Nigeria, Jean-Francois Hasperue, emphasized the role of universities in shaping a sustainable future and empowering students to address environmental and climate change issues.

He highlighted France’s commitment to fulfilling the Paris Agreement and collaborating with African countries to combat climate change.

The project includes deploying two micro plants co-designed with universities, supporting research initiatives in sustainable development and circular economy, and fostering exchanges between Nigerian and French researchers.

Sebastien Bede, Science and Higher Education Attaché, stressed the project’s aim to inspire environmental stewardship and reduce plastic waste on campuses.

UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Prof. Folasade Ogunsola and Nile University Dean Prof. Abdulhameed Mambo noted the project’s focus on value creation and efficient waste management, respectively.