Nestlé Nigeria Trains 100 Plastic Waste Workers to Promote Sustainability and Safety

Nestlé Nigeria Trains 100 Plastic Waste Workers to Promote Sustainability and Safety

In a major step toward environmental sustainability and social inclusion, Nestlé Nigeria has launched a Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) Training Programme for 100 plastic waste workers across Lagos and Abuja.

The initiative, supported by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Recyclers Association of Nigeria (RAN), and the Food Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), is designed to improve safety standards, empower workers, and promote dignity in the plastics recycling value chain.

The comprehensive training covered critical topics such as occupational health and safety, safe handling of recyclables, fire prevention and rescue techniques, and proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Each participant also received a PPE kit to help reduce occupational hazards and improve working conditions.

Speaking on the company’s motivation, Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead at Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting waste workers and advancing the circular economy.

“At Nestlé, we are committed to building a waste-free future and recognize the crucial role plastic waste workers play in reducing pollution and facilitating a circular economy. This training enhances their safety, employability, and productivity—helping to improve lives while strengthening Nigeria’s waste management system.”

At the Abuja launch, Prof. Innocent Barikor, Director-General of NESREA, lauded the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful in addressing Nigeria’s plastic pollution challenges.

“I commend Nestlé Nigeria for prioritizing the health and safety of those on the frontline of waste management. Waste workers are often underappreciated, yet they are key players in our collective fight against environmental degradation.”

In Lagos, Engr. Mayowa Elefin, Managing Director of Maladase Ecopreneur Management Company Limited, spoke on behalf of the trainees:

“This training aligns with our goal of promoting safe, healthy, and sustainable practices in the recycling value chain. It has equipped our staff with valuable knowledge and skills that will significantly enhance workplace safety and overall productivity.”

The SHE training was implemented by ImpactCrest Consulting and reflects Nestlé Nigeria’s broader mission of enhancing quality of life and contributing to a healthier future for people and the planet.

Notable stakeholders in attendance across both training locations included:

• Dr. N.C. Beka, Director, Inspection and Enforcement, NESREA
• Engr. Chukwudi Nwabuisiaku, Assistant Director, Plastic Waste Control, NESREA
• Mrs. Kate Ogbona, Director, Environmental Health and Safety, Abuja Environmental Protection Board
• Mr. Nura Abba Rimi, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI)
• Mrs. Muyiwa Ajayi, Director, Industrial Development Department, FMITI
• Mrs. Olabimpe Adenaike, Controller, Federal Ministry of Environment, Lagos Zonal Office
• Dr. Jonathan Sylvanus Dajal, Director, NESREA Lagos Liaison Office
• Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Government on Circular Economy and Climate Change
• Mr. Femi Owoeye, President and North-Central Coordinator, RAN
• Mrs. Feyikemi Egbeyemi, Southwest Coordinator, RAN
• Comrade Salisu Ali Yarima, President, Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN)
• Mr. Adebisi Franklyn, Lagos State Coordinator, WAPAN

This training marks a significant milestone in Nestlé’s efforts to create a more sustainable and inclusive waste management system in Nigeria, empowering workers and supporting national goals for environmental resilience.

About Nestlé Nigeria
Nestlé Nigeria is a leading food and beverage company committed to unlocking the power of food to enhance quality of life today and for future generations. Its portfolio includes well-known brands like NESTLÉ PURE LIFE, GOLDEN MORN, MILO, MAGGI, and NESCAFÉ.

Media Contact:
Toju Egbebi
Corporate Affairs Manager
Email: Corporate.Communications@ng.nestlé.com