The Cross River State Government has intensified its push towards a sustainable “waste-to-wealth” economy, as stakeholders, development partners and environmental experts trained youths on opportunities in recycling and green entrepreneurship.
The capacity-building workshop, themed “Transforming Waste to Wealth & Transitioning to a Circular Economy,” attracted participation from government officials and the Recyclers Association of Nigeria (RAN).
Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi, described the workshop as a turning point in the state’s environmental and economic journey.
He said the gathering was aimed at igniting a revolution of green entrepreneurship among youths, in line with the “People First” agenda of the Governor.
Osogi noted that the state must shift from seeing waste as a burden to recognising it as a reservoir of untapped economic value in the face of climate realities.
He explained that Cross River is embracing a circular economy model that promotes reuse, recycling and reintegration of waste into production systems.
The commissioner urged participants to take advantage of opportunities in recycling, upcycling and renewable energy, noting that the 2026 budget supports such innovations.
He encouraged youths to see waste as a business opportunity and position themselves as “ecopreneurs” capable of driving economic growth.
Earlier, Vice President of RAN, Victor Okunola, said the training was designed to help youths unlock the economic potential in waste.
He disclosed that Cross River generates about 79,000 tonnes of waste annually, describing it as a major opportunity for job creation and enterprise growth.
Okunola called for stronger policies, tax incentives and investment in recycling infrastructure to support the sector’s expansion.
Speaking on behalf of UNICEF, Mrs Juliet Chiluwe, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Enugu, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to youth-driven climate initiatives in the state.
“UNICEF is proud to support the Cross River State Ministry of Environment on this youth-centred climate initiative. By prioritising green entrepreneurship and sustainable waste management, we are equipping the next generation with the tools to thrive in a shifting global economy while securing a cleaner future,” she said.
Chiluwe added that through collaboration with the Recyclers Association of Nigeria, the programme has been strengthened with technical expertise in plastic value chains, composting and marine conservation.
“Our goal is to foster a vibrant ecosystem for innovation that empowers young leaders to excel in the green job market,” she added.
In a goodwill message, the Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Patrick Egbede, said the circular economy can drive job creation, innovation and revenue generation for the state.
Participants agreed that sustained partnerships, youth engagement and policy implementation are critical to transforming waste into wealth in Cross River State.
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