Cynthia Ezegwu
The Federal Government, on Thursday, unveiled a new digital platform aimed at formalising Nigeria’s waste value chain and driving economic empowerment through technology.
The initiative, known as the National Waste Marketplace Programme (NWMP), was launched during a sensitisation workshop in Abuja with the theme “Digitising and Formalising the Circular Economy Through Technology.”
Developed by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) in collaboration with Recycle Stack Limited, the platform connects waste generators, collectors, recyclers, aggregators, and end-users in a transparent and traceable system to promote sustainable waste management and circular economy practices.
Speaking at the launch, the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, said the innovation would help tackle Nigeria’s growing waste challenge by reducing environmental degradation and creating economic opportunities.
Represented by Yunus Abdulganiyu, a director in the ministry, Lawal noted that millions of tonnes of recyclable materials are lost annually due to poor waste disposal practices.
“This programme provides an opportunity to advance circular economy principles and modernise our waste management systems,” he said. “It ensures that waste materials are reused, repurposed, and reincorporated into production cycles in a transparent and traceable manner.”
The minister added that the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National Policy on Solid Waste Management, Extended Producer Responsibility Programme, and National Circular Economy Roadmap, as well as international commitments such as the Paris Agreement and Basel Convention.
He stated that the platform would enhance transparency, boost investor confidence, and attract private-sector participation in the recycling industry.
In his address, NESREA Director-General, Prof. Innocent Barikor, said the National Waste Marketplace marks “a bold and innovative step” toward turning waste into wealth.
“The programme connects all key players within a transparent and traceable system,” Barikor said. “It formalises the waste value chain, curbs illegal dumping, and promotes accountability in recycling.”
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He added that the initiative would also provide verified market linkages, improve traceability in recycling activities, and create jobs for thousands of Nigerian youths and micro-enterprises through training and certification in circular business models.
Recycle Stack CEO, Nkem Orakwe, described the project as a transformative move to “turn waste into wealth,” noting that it aims to empower 10 million Nigerians by 2035.
“With this platform, we are formalising waste pickers, integrating them into the formal economy, and providing financial inclusion, insurance, and certification,” he said.
He added that the programme aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, promoting green jobs, sustainable cities, and environmental stewardship.
Officials said the initiative would strengthen Nigeria’s position as a leader in Africa’s circular economy while fostering innovation, youth entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability.