AWAMN Tasks Stakeholders on Circular Economy for Sustainability

The Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN) has urged stakeholders in the waste management value chain to key into the doctrine of circular economy for a sustainable future.

Mr Olugbenga Adebola, National President of AWAMN made the call at its 2025 International Conference, Exhibition, Awards and Gala Night holding in Lagos.

The theme of the conference is “Redefining Integrated Waste Management in Nigeria Through Circular Economy.

Adebola said that the conference is a landmark event in Nigeria’s sustainability and waste management journey.

“Today, we stand at the threshold of transformation—a moment where ideas, collaborations, and commitments will redefine integrated waste management through the circular economy for a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous Nigeria.

“This conference is not just another event—it is a reflection of AWAMN’s dedication to capacity development, a fundamental pillar of my administration’s commitment to empowering waste managers and strengthening Nigeria’s waste sector.

“Today, we bring together the best minds, top policymakers, and international partners to ensure that waste is no longer seen as a problem, but as an opportunity—an opportunity for wealth creation, environmental sustainability, and economic transformation,” Adebola said.

According to the National President, AWAMN is more than just an association—it is a movement.

He noted that over the years, AWAMN had expanded its reach, influence, and impact in shaping Nigeria’s sustainability agenda.

“Today, we train, support, and empower thousands of waste managers, ensuring that their businesses thrive while also contributing to environmental conservation.

“This conference is a testament to our evolving role as leaders in waste management, and with every session, every panel discussion, and every partnership formed, we are cementing our place as the backbone of Nigeria’s sustainability ecosystem,” Adebola said.

He said that all stakeholders should work together to build a sustainable future that will benefit people, planet and everyone, everywhere will prosper.

Adebola stressed that the conference is not just about discussions alone, but about solutions to the challenges facing the waste management industry.

“As we engage in thought-provoking conversations, showcase cutting-edge innovations, and celebrate sustainability champions.

“Let us all make a commitment—to work together, invest in solutions, and take decisive actions that will redefine Nigeria’s waste management sector,” Adebola said.

He explained that Circular Economy is NOT limited or applicable to waste management alone, but a whole process of interlinked networks, much like a chain.

He said that circular economy is an economic system of exchange and production at all stages of the life cycle of products (Goods and Services), which aims at increasing efficiency of resource use and decrease the impact on the environment.

He listed seven (7) Operational fields of Circular Economy to include; Eco-design, Industrial & Territorial Ecology, Functional Economy, Sustainable Consumption, Extension in the length of use of a product, Recycling and Sustainable Supply.

“Our gathering here today is part of a much bigger mission—the sustainable
transformation of the Nigerian economy.

“We are transitioning from a linear economy, where waste was simply collected and dumped, causing pollution and environmental degradation.

“We evolved into a recycling economy, where valuable materials were recovered and repurposed, reducing our environmental footprint.

“Now, Nigeria is moving towards a full circular economy, where waste is no longer waste, but a resource that can be reintegrated into production cycles, creating jobs, stimulating innovation, and driving sustainable economic growth.

“This transition is not just an industry shift—it is a national economic transformation.

“Nigeria’s commitment to sustainability, waste management, and circular economy practices is stronger than ever.

Adebola said that AWAMN, as a key industry player, is proud to join this national journey and contribute meaningfully through advocacy, investments, and capacity development.

“My role, as President of AWAMN, an umbrella body of all waste management companies, practitioners, consultants etc has been to ensure that our association together with other Ecosystem players remains at the forefront of this transition.

“Over the years, I have been privileged to be actively involved in policy dialogues, investment facilitation, and knowledge-sharing initiatives that align with this sustainability mission.

“This conference is a direct fulfillment of one of my administration’s core campaign promises—Capacity Development.

“Through this platform, we are equipping waste managers, industry players, and policymakers with the knowledge, skills, and international collaborations needed to push this transition forward,” Adebola said.

He said that, for AWAMN as an association, the conference is a turning point.

“We are proving that we are not just industry operators—we are thought leaders, policy influencers, and key players in Nigeria’s sustainability journey.

“For the waste management sector, this conference presents opportunities to:

• Access green funding for sustainability projects

• Learn about cutting-edge waste management technologies and strategies

• Build relationships with international experts and investors

• Enhance collaboration between government, private sector, and communities

‘Through this platform, we are laying the groundwork for Nigeria to become a leader in circular economy practices across Africa.

“Join us in this movement. Let’s turn waste into wealth. Let’s make Nigeria a global leader in circular economy practices’.

Recognizing Partners in Progress

Adebola expressed heartfelt gratitude to Her Excellency, Senator Dr. (Mrs.) Oluremi Tinubu, CON, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for her unwavering dedication to environmental sustainability and social development.

“Her passion for waste management reform, community engagement, and resource efficiency has made her a heroine of the environment, and tonight, we honor her with a historic investiture as the Grand Patron of AWAMN.”

He also expressed deep appreciation to His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander – in – Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“Our very dear Grand Patron of this Noble Association since 2008 – The Generalissimo of the Environment for his unflinching commitment to Waste Management and Environmental Sustainability since he was the Governor of the state that generates the highest tonnage of waste per – Lagos State.

“He has stood by the Association through thick and thin periods of our history. I salute you sir as a true General of the Environment”

To the Executive Governors present, your leadership in implementing waste management reforms across your states is commendable. Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Edo, Enugu, and Abia States have been at the forefront of pushing for sustainable waste policies, and we are honored by your presence.

I equally recognize the Honorable Ministers, Commissioners, and Special Advisers on Environment, Climate Change, and Urban Development, as well as the leadership of waste management parastatals, for their relentless efforts in driving Nigeria’s environmental agenda forward.

To our international partners and foreign missions, your presence here today underscores the global importance of Nigeria’s circular economy transformation.

The backing of international organizations, including our partners from Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Austria, Canada, and Denmark, highlights the strategic role Nigeria plays in the global waste-to-resource economy.

AWAMN Leadership and Planning Committee

“A special appreciation goes to our revered elders, Board of Trustee members (BOT), my colleagues in the AWAMN Executive Council, whose dedication and hard work continue to drive our association to greater heights.

“Your commitment to innovation, policy advocacy, and industry best practices is invaluable.

“To the Planning Committee of this prestigious event, I acknowledge your tireless efforts in organizing a world-class conference.

“As an important observer in this process, I have witnessed the passion, resilience, and excellence that you have brought into making this event a resounding success.”, he concluded.