By Micah Jonah
January 26, 2026
The Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social impact arm of Sahara Group, has commissioned 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 initiative is part of the Sahara Go Recycling Programme, which promotes a circular economy by diverting recyclable waste from landfills, improving resource recovery, creating income opportunities for households through waste-to-wealth interventions.
The new hub expands the Foundation’s recycling footprint in Lagos, providing structured, community-led solutions in emerging urban areas. Strategically located in Ibeju-Lekki, it is equipped with a solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine (RVM), allowing residents to deposit recyclable materials and receive instant rewards, reinforcing responsible environmental behavior.
Speaking at the commissioning, the Foundation’s Director, Chidilim Menakaya, said:
“The Sahara Go Recycling Hub is more than a collection point; it is a platform for dignity, livelihoods, and environmental responsibility. By bringing structured recycling closer to communities, we are empowering residents to protect their environment while creating economic value.”
The ceremony was attended by representatives of Sahara Group and its Foundation, community leaders, partners, and Ibeju-Lekki residents, highlighting strong local engagement. The Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Olowa Sesan, described the hub as timely and impactful, aligning with local sustainability priorities, while the Vice Chairman, Hon. Isiaka Yusuf Olatunji, encouraged active community participation.
Since inception, 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 in Lagos by creating alternative income streams.
The CEO of Ecobarter, Rita Idehai, added:
“Our collaboration with Sahara Group Foundation demonstrates the power of partnerships in delivering scalable, community-focused recycling solutions. Communities directly benefit while adopting responsible waste practices.”
Menakaya concluded that Sahara Go Recycling is changing perceptions of waste, demonstrating its economic value, and building sustainable ecosystems for present and future generations. The Foundation plans to expand the initiative further across Lagos and beyond, advancing its mission of building sustainable communities through EXTRApreneurship.
