Sahara Group Foundation has inaugurated its 23rd Sahara Go Recycling Hub at Sam Ethnan Air Force Base in Ikeja, Lagos, as part of efforts to promote sustainable waste management and create livelihood opportunities.
The foundation, the social impact arm of Sahara Group, said the facility would support the recovery of recyclable materials and help communities generate income from waste.
Speaking at the inauguration on Friday, the Director of Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya, said the initiative aligned with the organisation’s sustainability goals by reducing environmental impact, supporting climate action and promoting inclusive economic growth.
“This initiative aligns with our sustainability and development priorities by transforming waste into valuable resources, reducing environmental impact, supporting climate action and creating livelihood opportunities. It demonstrates how communities can advance environmental responsibility while promoting inclusive economic growth,” she said.
The Commander of 651 Base Services Group, Sam Ethnan Air Force Base, Air Commodore M.A. Imam, commended the foundation’s investment in environmental sustainability, stressing the need for collective action to address waste management challenges in growing communities.
Also speaking, the Head of Corporate Communications at Ikeja Electric, Kingsley Okotie, said the company was pleased to partner with the foundation to promote responsible environmental practices at the base.
He reaffirmed Ikeja Electric’s commitment to sustainable partnerships, improved power supply and the well-being of customers, institutions, businesses and communities.
Menakaya said the recycling initiative demonstrated how collaboration and community participation could support environmental protection and improve livelihoods.
“Through collaboration, innovation and community participation, we are driving long-term environmental impact while improving livelihoods and strengthening community ownership of sustainable practices,” she added.
The inauguration was attended by representatives of Sahara Group and its foundation, Air Force officials, community leaders, volunteers and residents.
According to the foundation, Sahara Go Recycling has facilitated the recycling of more than 1,000 tonnes of recyclable waste and directly and indirectly supported over 2,000 livelihoods through waste collection, sorting, logistics and community-based businesses.
The initiative uses partnerships and community engagement to promote recycling, create economic value from waste and encourage sustainable lifestyles.
The foundation said it would continue expanding the programme in line with its mission to build sustainable communities through EXTRApreneurship.