The Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), in partnership with Ororo Waste Management, has commenced a two-day capacity-building training aimed at equipping waste pickers, youths and market women with skills in used cooking oil (UCO) collection to promote environmental sustainability and economic empowerment.
The training, holding from July 9 to 10 at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Building in Alausa, Ikeja, is designed to provide participants with practical knowledge on the safe handling, collection and management of used cooking oil as part of efforts to strengthen the circular economy in Lagos State.
No fewer than 23 participants, including Hausa and Yoruba speakers, took part in the first day of the programme, reflecting its inclusive approach to empowering diverse communities with sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Speaking at the event, the General Secretary of the Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN), Alhaji Suleiman Adama, described the initiative as a landmark intervention capable of transforming waste management practices in Nigeria.
He noted that the programme introduces waste pickers to a new dimension of waste management beyond traditional recyclable materials such as plastics, cartons and metals.
According to him, the initiative will not only improve environmental protection and public health but also create additional income streams for waste pickers and unemployed youths.
“The collection of used cooking oil is still at an early stage, but over time, data generated from this project will demonstrate its environmental impact, especially in reducing indiscriminate disposal,” Adama said.
He stressed the need for sustained public awareness to discourage the disposal or repeated use of degraded cooking oil, noting that education on associated health risks would drive greater participation.
Adama also disclosed that households and food vendors participating in the programme would receive incentives from Ororo Waste Management, a move expected to boost community engagement.
While commending LASEPA and Ororo Waste Management for pioneering the initiative, he called for increased government support through the provision of operational tools, personal protective equipment and logistics such as tricycles to enhance the efficiency of waste pickers.
Participants expressed appreciation to the organisers, describing the training as impactful and timely.
Mr. Ishola Abdulateef Olamilekan said the programme had exposed participants to the economic and environmental value of used cooking oil, adding that the knowledge gained would improve his business and contribute to a cleaner environment.
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Similarly, Yusuf Abdullahi from Katsina State noted that the training broadened his understanding of proper UCO collection, while Nafiu Umaru from Kebbi State said the programme equipped him with valuable insights on how used cooking oil can support environmental sustainability and income generation.
The initiative underscores Lagos State’s commitment to innovative waste management solutions that combine environmental protection with job creation.
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