The Ogun State Government has intensified efforts to transform electronic waste into a viable economic resource, as the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) convened its 2026 Annual Chemical Users and Handlers Workshop in Abeokuta.
The workshop, themed “Transforming E-Waste into Opportunity: Circular Economy Solutions for Ogun State,” brought together stakeholders to explore innovative approaches to managing electronic waste within a sustainable economic framework.
Speaking at the event, Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ola Oresanya, described Ogun State as not only Nigeria’s gateway but also its industrial engine, with major industrial clusters spanning Agbara, Sagamu, Kajola, Ota and Abeokuta.
He noted that the present administration has embraced environmentally responsible policies, highlighting initiatives such as the e-mobility programme, Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion scheme, solar power infrastructure and waste-to-fuel projects. According to him, these initiatives remain central to the state’s economic development agenda and improving residents’ quality of life.
Also speaking, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Prof. Innocent Barikor, described the workshop’s theme as a paradigm shift. He urged stakeholders to view electronic waste not as a burden, but as a valuable resource capable of driving innovation and economic growth.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Kafayat Lawal, who represented the Commissioner, said the focus on e-waste management was timely, noting that Nigeria generates over 500,000 tonnes of electronic waste annually. She added that Ogun State, as a major industrial hub, is strategically positioned to harness the opportunities inherent in effective e-waste management.
Lawal warned that poor handling of e-waste could lead to soil and water contamination, posing serious public health risks, particularly to children. However, she emphasised that proper management could stimulate job creation, innovation and sustainable economic growth.
Earlier, the General Manager of OGEPA, Hon. Kehinde Bello, stated that the workshop was designed to establish a structured, safe and forward-looking framework for e-waste management in the state. He stressed that beyond regulations, there is a need for stronger collaboration, knowledge sharing and adherence to best practices, especially in the safe handling of chemicals during recycling processes.
The workshop concluded with a renewed call for collective action among stakeholders to leverage e-waste as an economic asset while safeguarding environmental and public health.
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