Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social impact arm of Sahara Group, has inaugurated its 17th Sahara Go Recycling Hub in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable waste management, environmental protection, and community empowerment across Nigeria.

The Sahara Go Recycling Initiative promotes a circular economy by diverting recyclable waste from landfills, enhancing resource recovery, and creating income opportunities for households through waste-to-wealth programs.

A statement from the Foundation on Sunday noted that the new hub expands its recycling footprint in Lagos, providing structured, community-led recycling solutions to emerging urban communities. Strategically located in Ibeju-Lekki, the hub encourages responsible waste disposal while enabling residents to earn value from recyclable materials.

Significantly, this is the second Sahara Go Recycling Hub to feature a solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine (RVM), integrating clean energy and innovation into grassroots sustainability efforts. The RVM allows residents to deposit recyclable materials conveniently and receive instant rewards, promoting positive environmental behaviour.

Speaking at the commissioning, Sahara Group Foundation Director Chidilim Menakaya said, “The Sahara Go Recycling Hub in Ibeju-Lekki is more than a recycling point; it is a platform for dignity, livelihoods, and environmental responsibility. By bringing structured recycling closer to communities, we empower residents to protect their environment while generating economic value.”

The ceremony drew representatives from Sahara Group and the Foundation, the Executive Chairman and Vice Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, community leaders, partners, and residents, highlighting strong local engagement and shared ownership of the initiative.

Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Olowa Sesan, emphasised the hub’s significance for the community, noting its alignment with local sustainability and development priorities. He described the initiative as timely and impactful, highlighting its role in transforming waste into resources, reducing environmental impact, supporting climate action, and creating livelihood opportunities.

Vice Chairman Hon. Isiaka Yusuf Olatunji urged residents to actively participate, stressing the importance of responsible waste management to secure long-term community benefits.

Since its launch, the Sahara Go Recycling Initiative has collected over 660 tonnes of recyclable waste, facilitated more than ₦93 million in payouts, and positively impacted over 1,700 households across Lagos by creating alternative income streams.

Rita Idehai, CEO of Ecobarter, said, “Our collaboration with Sahara Group Foundation in Ibeju-Lekki demonstrates the power of partnerships in delivering scalable, community-focused recycling solutions. Together, we encourage responsible waste practices while ensuring communities benefit directly from sustainability initiatives.”

Menakaya added, “Sahara Go Recycling is creating a ripple effect across Lagos, changing perceptions about waste and highlighting its economic value. Through partnerships and community engagement, we are building sustainable ecosystems for present and future generations.”

The Foundation confirmed plans to continue expanding the Sahara Go Recycling Initiative across Lagos and beyond, advancing its mission to build sustainable communities through EXTRApreneurship.