By Faridat Salifu
Hon. Terseer Ugbor, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Environment and Member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, on Thursday in Abuja launched his latest book, Recycling in Nigeria: How to Start and Run a Successful Recycling Business. The event, held at the Nigeria Merit House in Maitama, gathered environmentalists, business leaders, and policymakers, all united by a commitment to transforming Nigeria’s waste management system and unlocking new economic opportunities in recycling.
During the launch, Hon. Ugbor emphasized Nigeria’s lag in environmental infrastructure and waste management systems. In a candid interview with newsmen, he noted, “Nigeria has not a single engineering dump site or a waste-to-energy plant, despite our abundant waste resources which could be harnessed to generate power and create jobs.” Highlighting ongoing efforts, he acknowledged the Federal Capital Territory’s recent feasibility studies for waste-to-energy plants, expressing optimism that state and national governments would recognize the opportunities in waste-to-energy conversion.
Ugbor explained that his book provides a practical guide for Nigerians interested in the recycling industry. “This book breaks down the basics of recycling businesses, from collecting waste to generating profit. It’s structured to empower anyone who wants to enter the recycling sector,” he stated, stressing that waste management presents a win-win solution by cleaning the environment, generating energy, and creating jobs for young people.
Representing the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Hon. Chris Tarka delivered a goodwill message, describing the book as a “golden opportunity” for Nigeria’s youth. “This recycling market is vast, with untapped potential across our communities,” Tarka noted. “In many countries, households already separate their waste into different bins, aiding recycling efforts. Nigeria can adopt similar practices, and this book provides the roadmap.”
In his closing remarks, Tarka encouraged the audience not only to read the book but to consider the business opportunities it presents. He acknowledged that the book would be distributed across offices to encourage Nigerians interested in side businesses or waste management to explore the industry.
Recycling in Nigeria covers ten chapters, beginning with an introduction to recycling and Nigeria’s policy framework. The book then delves into specific recycling ventures, such as battery recycling, e-waste, plastics, scrap metals, and tires, and includes case studies of successful recycling ventures in Nigeria. Each chapter provides practical notes, allowing readers to jot down ideas and insights as they explore business opportunities.
Sharon Ikeazor, Nigeria’s former Minister of State for Environment, applauded Ugbor’s work, noting that Recycling in Nigeria aligns with the nation’s commitment to sustainable development. She urged Nigerians to continue on the shared journey toward a cleaner, prosperous Nigeria, emphasizing that reusing, repurposing, and recycling can lead to a more sustainable future. “Let’s keep working together on this journey,” she said, “for a Nigeria that is not only greener but also stronger.”
The book reviewer, Professor Emmanuel Oladipo, underscored the timeliness and depth of Ugbor’s work in addressing Nigeria’s pressing waste management issues. Highlighting that “waste is not part of God’s agenda for humanity,” Oladipo warned that Nigeria’s growing population, projected to reach 400 million by 2050, will exacerbate the country’s waste crisis.
He explained that Nigeria’s rapid urbanization and increased consumption lead to an estimated 173 million tons of waste annually. With a high organic content, much of this waste holds potential for energy conversion and composting but requires proper segregation and infrastructure. “This book,” Oladipo said, “is a practical manual that combines policy and entrepreneurial advice for turning waste into profit. The author has successfully translated complex waste management practices into actionable steps, making it accessible to every Nigerian.”
The book delves into diverse areas of waste recycling, offering step-by-step guidance on establishing various recycling businesses, from battery and e-waste to plastic, scrap metal, paper, and tire recycling. Each chapter includes tips on startup requirements, policy compliance, and practical case studies to inspire prospective entrepreneurs.
Prof. Oladipo also praised Ugbor’s discussion on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which incentivizes manufacturers to create environmentally friendly products and manage their end-of-life waste. The book introduces readers to Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) and highlights the role they play in Nigeria’s recycling ecosystem. “EPR is not just about public relations,” Oladipo explained. “It’s about accountability. Companies must devise ways to retrieve their products’ waste, and this book shows us how Nigeria can adopt this model.”
Ugbor concluded the launch by reiterating that Recycling in Nigeria aims to empower Nigerians to take action in addressing the country’s waste crisis
. “The government cannot solve this alone. We’ve set the groundwork with this book to advance knowledge and business practices in waste management. Now, it’s up to us to act.”
