The Ogun State Government has introduced a new circular economy approach aimed at turning electronic waste into economic opportunities. This strategy focuses on generating employment, safeguarding the environment, and promoting industrial sustainability. Governor Dapo Abiodun emphasized that the well-being of chemical handlers remains a top priority, stressing that industrial progress must go hand in hand with environmental stewardship.
Speaking at the 4th OGEPA Capacity Building Workshop in Abeokuta, themed “Transforming E-Waste into Opportunity: Circular Economy Solutions for Ogun State,” the governor, represented by Commissioner for Environment Ola Oresanya, declared that the state will no longer permit informal handling of hazardous waste. He cited data indicating that Nigeria produces over 500,000 tonnes of e-waste each year, warning that improper disposal releases dangerous substances like lead and mercury, posing serious health hazards.
Governor Abiodun specifically addressed chemical handlers and workers involved in e-waste processing. He said, “Your safety is non-negotiable. You are exposed daily to lead from cathode ray tubes, mercury in flat-screen backlights, cadmium in batteries, and brominated flame retardants in plastics. Improper handling leads to respiratory diseases, neurological damage, and chronic poisoning. We are committed to providing you with proper Personal Protective Equipment, training in safe dismantling, and access to formal processing channels that protect your health while preserving your livelihood.”
The governor also called on participants to develop a concrete e-waste roadmap, establish a multi-sector task force, and secure binding commitments from industry stakeholders. Commissioner for Environment, represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Kafayat Lawal, noted that the workshop aims to advance a draft E-waste and Circular Economy Roadmap for Ogun State and to set up a multi-sectoral task force for its implementation.
Dr. Innocent Barikor, Director-General of NESREA, described the theme as a paradigm shift that encourages viewing e-waste not merely as an environmental burden but as a resource within a sustainable economic framework. OGEPA General Manager Kehinde Bello highlighted that the workshop seeks to create a structured, safe, and forward-looking framework for e-waste management, emphasizing that regulation alone is insufficient and that collaboration, knowledge sharing, and best practices are essential, especially in safe chemical handling during recycling.
A major highlight was the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding among OGEPA, E-Terra Technologies Ltd., and the E-Waste Relief Foundation, marking a significant step toward formalizing e-waste management in the state.