The Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy (OCCE) has once again advanced Lagos State’s sustainability agenda with the 7th edition of its flagship programme, EcoCirculate, held in Ojokoro LCDA over the weekend.
Having now reached over 11 communities across Lagos State, EcoCirculate continues to scale grassroots-driven circular economy solutions, reinforcing OCCE’s commitment to responsible waste practices and inclusive environmental action. The Ojokoro edition convened over 500 residents, demonstrating the growing community ownership of sustainable waste management practices.
The 7th edition was implemented in collaboration with the leadership of Ojokoro Local Council Development Area, bringing together traditional leaders, partners, educators, waste value chain actors, and residents to promote improved waste sorting, resource recovery, and environmental awareness at the grassroots level.
Representing the Lagos State Government, the Special Adviser on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, emphasised that effective waste management extends beyond infrastructure and policy. While investments in collection systems, processing facilities, and regulatory frameworks remain critical, she noted that real progress is shaped by everyday household decisions.
“EcoCirculate continues to demonstrate the value of coordinated community action that strengthens local waste systems while creating meaningful opportunities around recycling and resource recovery,” she stated.
Royal Presence and Private Sector Leadership
The event reflected the collaborative spirit that defines OCCE’s programming. Traditional rulers, including Oba Adeshoga Williams Adeyoola, the Oba of Orile Alagbado, alongside Barr. Oluyemisi Rosiji, Executive Chairlady of Ojokoro LCDA; Olalekan Oyekunle, Vice Chairman; and Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, were joined by private-sector partners such as Refab Africa, DecarbonIQ, C21st Century, Gas247, FABE International Foundation, PAKAM, and TrashUsers.
Their collective participation underscored the strength of multi-stakeholder collaboration in advancing circular economy objectives and delivering measurable environmental impact across communities in Lagos State.
Educating the Next Generation
A major highlight of the Ojokoro edition was the active participation of primary school students and their teachers. In collaboration with FABE International Foundation, students engaged in hands-on learning sessions designed to deepen their understanding of circular economy principles. Live demonstrations showcased how discarded materials, such as used tyres, can be repurposed into functional furniture. Practical waste-sorting exercises reinforced the importance of separating recyclables from general waste, empowering young participants to become environmental ambassadors within their schools and households.
Speaking on the programme’s impact, Adefarakin Ifeoluwa, Project Lead of EcoCirculate Ojokoro, noted: “Through Eco-Circulate, we educate communities on how to sort waste, reduce pollution, and practice recycling in simple, everyday ways. We also work with waste pickers and recyclers, supporting their livelihoods while keeping our environment clean.”
Building on Measurable Progress
Since its inception in 2024, EcoCirculate has expanded steadily across multiple local government areas in Lagos State. To date, the programme has facilitated the collation of nearly 39 thousand tonnes of recoverable waste – including plastics, textiles, and cartons – across participating communities, with contributions from the Ojokoro edition further strengthening these outcomes.
Beyond the data, EcoCirculate represents a shift in perception: waste is no longer viewed merely as a disposal challenge, but as a resource capable of supporting green enterprise, economic opportunity, and improved neighbourhood conditions when properly managed. The initiative continues to strengthen collaboration between residents, recyclers, aggregators, and local authorities – translating awareness into tangible environmental and socio-economic benefits.
Strengthening Partnerships for Scaled Impact
OCCE reaffirmed its commitment to deepening partnerships across the public and private sectors to scale circular economy interventions that deliver long-term environmental and socio-economic value. Sustained collaboration, the Office noted, remains essential to building resilient waste systems capable of meeting the demands of a rapidly growing urban population.
With Ojokoro now part of the expanding EcoCirculate network, the focus shifts to sustaining momentum and broadening reach across Lagos State. OCCE remains committed to ensuring that the knowledge, skills, and awareness gained translate into sustained community-led action.
By fostering continued collaboration between residents, schools, partners, and local authorities, EcoCirculate aims to embed responsible waste practices into daily life – transforming environmental awareness into measurable community impact.
When communities, government, and partners work together, sustainable change is not only possible – it is achievable.