Nigeria is spearheading the adoption of circular economy principles as a strategic pathway toward sustainable development and climate resilience. Speaking at COP29 during a session titled “Empowering Interregional Partnerships for Circular Economy Transition: Towards a Climate-Resilient and Sustainable Future”, Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, emphasized the nation’s progress in transforming key sectors.
Represented by Dr. Innocent Barikor, Director General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Minister outlined how circular economy practices are driving sustainability in Nigeria’s construction, industrial, and energy sectors.
Circular Economy Transforming Nigeria’s Key Sectors
Nigeria has successfully integrated recycled materials into construction projects, optimized industrial processes using repurposed by-products, and implemented waste-to-energy solutions. These innovations have significantly reduced carbon emissions while enhancing resource efficiency, making Nigeria a regional leader in sustainable practices.
Dr. Barikor highlighted the importance of these strategies:
“Our efforts to incorporate recycled materials and repurpose waste have not only improved resource efficiency but also contributed to reducing environmental degradation.”
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): A Game Changer
Central to Nigeria’s circular economy success is the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program. This initiative compels manufacturers to manage the lifecycle of their products, from design to waste management, ensuring a more sustainable production process.
The EPR program has created jobs, driven innovation, and opened new opportunities for sustainable economic growth. To address challenges such as limited recycling infrastructure and non-compliance, Nigeria is scaling up investments in infrastructure and enhancing stakeholder engagement.
Fostering Global Partnerships for Climate Resilience
Nigeria’s role as a founding member of the African Circular Economy Alliance (ACEA) and a partner in the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP) highlights the nation’s commitment to international collaboration. Through these alliances, Nigeria has gained access to scalable, context-specific solutions that address unique challenges while contributing to global climate action.
The Minister explained:
“By leveraging interregional partnerships, Nigeria has adopted innovative approaches to balance industrialization with sustainability, setting a benchmark for other developing nations.”
A Blueprint for Sustainable Growth
The circular economy has become more than an environmental initiative for Nigeria; it is a model for economic transformation. By strengthening regulatory frameworks and fostering global partnerships, Nigeria is paving the way for a climate-resilient future.
As discussions at COP29 continue, Nigeria’s success story serves as an inspiring example of how circular economy practices can drive sustainable development, create economic opportunities, and contribute to global climate goals.
