SRADev Nigeria Unveils Zero Waste Marshals in Lagos Schools
Environmental education project aims to drive grassroots waste management in Lagos communities
The Sustainable Research and Action for Environmental Development (SRADev Nigeria) has formally launched a team of Zero Waste Marshals drawn from Lagos-based schools and residential estates, in a bid to promote sustainable waste management and environmental consciousness.
The unveiling ceremony, held at Ajao Estate Junior School, Anthony Village, on Wednesday, marked a major step in the organisation’s drive to embed zero waste practices into communities and schools.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Leslie Adogame, Executive Director of SRADev Nigeria, said the project reflects the need for a community-driven approach to waste management that complements the Lagos State Government’s ongoing efforts.
“You cannot effectively manage waste without adopting a zero waste approach,” Dr. Adogame said.
“We partnered with Eko Akete High School, Anthony High School, Ajao Estate Junior School, and several estates to train students and residents over six months, based on global zero waste standards.”
Each school received three colour-coded waste bins—for recyclables, non-recyclables, and organic waste—and students were taught how to sort, manage, and reuse waste, with special attention on organic waste processing to minimize landfill pressure.
“We want this initiative to cascade from schools to homes, and we’re calling for policy support and stronger collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Environment to scale up this model,” Dr. Adogame added.
Mr. Friday Oku, President of the Association of Scraps and Wastepickers of Lagos (ASWOL), described the programme as a “dream come true”, noting that ASWOL had worked with SRADev since 2023 to build awareness around waste source separation.
“Waste sorting is not just about hygiene—it’s a source of livelihood for many. This initiative empowers our members and helps clean up Lagos,” he said.
Mr. Abiodun Oladunjoye, Principal of Eko Akete Senior School, called the training inspiring, noting that it equips young people to become environmental stewards.
Students also expressed enthusiasm, highlighting how the programme improved their understanding of the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle—and encouraged them to become change agents in their communities.
The Zero Waste initiative is part of SRADev’s broader mission to promote environmental sustainability through education, advocacy, and grassroots engagement.
