MAN Commends Ogun State’s Innovative Waste-to-Wealth Program, Urges Nigeria to Embrace Circular Economy Approaches
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), the primary advocacy voice for Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, has lauded Ogun State Government for its innovative and sustainable approach to plastic waste management, particularly concerning single-use plastics.
In a statement released on July 3, 2025, and signed by MAN’s Director-General, Segun Ajayi-Kadir, MNI, the organization expressed appreciation for the state’s initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste, encouraging recycling, and fostering a cleaner environment. Ajayi-Kadir emphasized the government’s commitment to partnering with manufacturers and stakeholders along the plastic value chain to advance its “Waste to Wealth” agenda.
The Ogun State Government’s efforts were highlighted by the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, during this year’s World Environment Day celebration in Abeokuta, under the theme **“Beating Plastics.”** Oresanya outlined programs such as “Plastics for Cash,” which incentivizes residents to exchange sorted plastic waste for money or goods—creating income opportunities for youth, women, and informal waste collectors—and the “Blue Box” scheme, which encourages household waste separation and collection. To oversee and expand these initiatives, Ogun State has established a Plastic Management Committee comprising government agencies, manufacturers, and academic institutions.
This committee is tasked with promoting the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines aligned with national standards, facilitating plastic buy-back schemes, and generating employment within the recycling sector. These efforts stand in contrast to recent developments in Lagos State, where a ban on single-use plastics has sparked debate. MAN advocates for progressive policies that strike a balance between environmental sustainability and economic stability, rather than abrupt bans that risk job losses and undermine small businesses.
Globally, countries like Egypt, Ghana, and the United States are adopting circular economy models—focusing on recycling, innovation, and community engagement—rather than outright prohibitions. For example, Egypt’s Banlastic initiative emphasizes education and community clean-up projects, Ghana’s Nelplast converts waste into affordable construction materials, and the US promotes advanced recycling technologies and energy-efficient design.
Ajayi-Kadir urges Nigerian states to learn from these models and leverage Ogun State’s successful initiatives. Specifically, Lagos State should revitalize existing programs such as the smart bins and Blue Box scheme, and fully implement them to effectively address plastic waste challenges.
He stressed that sustainable waste management solutions require stakeholder collaboration, scalable alternatives, and infrastructure development. These strategies should support productivity and circularity, rather than penalize industries and informal waste workers.
MAN remains committed to advocating for inclusive policies that protect public health, promote environmental stewardship, and foster economic growth. Ajayi-Kadir concluded by emphasizing that Nigeria’s plastic pollution crisis stems largely from inadequate waste management infrastructure and enforcement, not the materials themselves. He called for a shift towards progressive waste practices that generate wealth and employment, rather than simplistic bans that hinder industrial development and deepen poverty.