By Merit Ibe
Nestlé Nigeria has launched a comprehensive Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) Training Programme, empowering 100 plastic waste workers across Lagos and Abuja, in its efforts to bolster environmental sustainability and social inclusion.
This initiative aims to enhance the safety and wellbeing of these invaluable workers while empowering them and promoting their dignity within the plastics recycling value chain.
Supported by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Recyclers Association of Nigeria (RAN), and the Food Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), the training encompassed essential topics such as best practices in occupational health and safety, responsible handling of recyclable materials, fire prevention and rescue techniques, and the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Each participant will also receive PPE kits to ensure safer working conditions, fostering a healthier environment for both workers and their communities.
Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead for Nestlé Nigeria articulated the company’s motivation for this initiative, highlighting Nestlé’s commitment to building a waste-free future and the recognition of the role that the waste workers play in bringing this vision to life.
“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 is a vital component of our support for this key stakeholder group, enhancing Nigeria’s waste management infrastructure. By equipping these essential workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, we help to improve their quality of life while increasing their employability and boost productivity within a sustainable waste management framework.”
During the opening ceremony in Abuja, Prof. Innocent Barikor, Director General of NESREA, praised Nestlé’s commitment to environmental sustainability, stating, “I commend Nestlé Nigeria Plc. for its commitment towards environmental sustainability and for prioritizing the health and safety of those at the frontline of waste management. Waste workers are often unrecognized yet play a crucial role in our national effort to combat plastic pollution in our environment. The focus on training waste workers is commendable, especially at a time when the world is seeking solutions to the prevailing challenges relating to plastic waste management”.
Responding on behalf of the trainees at the Lagos event, Engr. Mayowa Elefin, MD, Maladase Ecopreneur Management Company Limited commented saying “This training is an impactful initiative which aligns with our commitment to promoting a safe, healthy, and sustainable work environment across our plastic recycling value chain.
It has provided valuable knowledge and practical skills that will greatly benefit our staff, enhancing their capacity to maintain safe operations, ensure healthier workplaces, and ultimately improve productivity”.
This initiative underscores the collective commitment of Nestlé Nigeria, NESREA, RAN, and FBRA to promote environmental sustainability and generate positive social impact. By ensuring that plastic waste workers acquire the skills necessary for healthier, more productive lives, we contribute to a more sustainable circular economy.
Other Stakeholders at the Abuja and Lagos event were – Director, Inspection and Enforcement, NESREA, Dr. N.C Beka, Asst. Director, Plastic Waste Control, Inspection and Enforcement, NESREA, Engr. Chukwudi Nwabuisiaku, Director Environmental Health and Safety, Abuja Environmental Protection Board, Mrs. Kate Ogbona, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment (FMITI), Mr. Nura Abba Rimi, Director, Industrial Development Department, FMITI, Mrs. Muyiwa Ajayi, Controller, Federal Ministry of Environment, Lagos Zonal Office, Mrs. Olabimpe Adenaike, Director, NESREA Lagos Liaison Office, Dr. Jonathan Sylvanus Dajal, Special Adviser to Lagos State Government on Circular Economy and Climate Change, Mrs. Titilayo Oshodi. President, North-Central Coordinator, RAN, Mr. Femi Owoeye, Southwest Coordinator, RAN, Mrs. Feyikemi Egbeyemi, President, Waste Pickers Association of Nigeria (WAPAN), Comrade Salisu Ali Yarima, Lagos State Coordinator, WAPAN, Mr. Adebisi Franklyn.
The SHE training program which was implemented by ImpactCrest Consulting aligns seamlessly with Nestlé’s dedication to enhancing quality of life and fostering a healthier future for individuals and families, as well as the planet. Together, we are taking significant steps towards a more sustainable and inclusive future.
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