Koko Maxwella 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Sahara Group Foundation has strengthened its drive for sustainable waste management with the commissioning of its 16th Sahara Go-Recycling Hub in Lekki, Lagos.
The new facility marks a major expansion of the Foundation’s recycling network and is the first to feature a solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine (RVM), integrating clean energy with community-based recycling solutions.
Situated strategically in Lekki, the hub builds on the success of 15 existing centres across Lagos and reinforces Sahara’s wider commitment to environmental protection, circular economy development and community empowerment.
The Go-Recycling initiative encourages responsible disposal, improves resource recovery and enables residents to earn income by returning recyclable materials.
Speaking at the launch on Friday, Director of the Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya, said the facility represents “a new path for innovation, economic opportunity and community resilience,” adding that integrating renewable energy into recycling infrastructure shows how innovation can elevate environmental responsibility.
The event drew senior executives from Sahara Group, Directors from Downstream Africa and Sahara Power Group, senior management from Asharami Synergy, trustees of the Foundation, traditional leaders and community members. Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, Executive Director at Sahara Group, said the hub demonstrates the power of community-led climate action. “This hub is not just collecting recyclables; it is inspiring new habits, creating economic value and proving that cleaner, greener cities are possible,” she said.
Board Trustee, Dr Anthony Youdeowei praised the multi-stakeholder collaboration behind the hub, describing it as an example of sustainability that is “practical, accessible and community driven.” Representatives from the 2025 Graduate Management Trainee cohort also participated, noting the project’s impact on recycling culture and community empowerment.
Since inception, the Go-Recycling initiative has collected over 650 tonnes of waste and paid out more than ₦55 million to participants, impacting more than 1,200 households. With Lagos communities increasingly adopting recycling practices, the Foundation plans further expansion across Nigeria and Africa to advance its EXTRApreneurship vision of building sustainable, circular systems
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Mirian Gom 
Chukwu Obinna 
