Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social impact arm of the Sahara Group, has inaugurated its 16th Sahara Go-Recycling Hub in Lekki, Lagos State, reinforcing its long-term commitment to sustainable waste management, environmental protection, and community empowerment.
The launch marks a significant milestone in the Foundation’s growing recycling footprint, expanding upon the success of 15 previously established hubs across Lagos, according to a statement from the firm on Sunday.
Strategically located in the Lekki axis, the newly commissioned hub stands out as the first within the Sahara Go-Recycling network to feature a solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine.
The integration of clean energy with recycling technology represents a major innovation in the Foundation’s efforts to promote responsible waste disposal and enhance community participation in environmental sustainability.
By allowing residents to deposit their recyclables into an energy-efficient system, the hub supports both environmental protection and improved resource recovery.
The Sahara Go-Recycling initiative was created to advance a circular economy approach in waste management. Through the programme, the Foundation encourages individuals, households, and communities to adopt recycling habits while earning income from recyclable materials. This model not only reduces environmental pollution but also provides alternative livelihoods for community members.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Director of Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya, stated, “The launch of the Lekki Go-Recycling Hub goes beyond environmental responsibility; it represents a new path for innovation, economic opportunity, and community resilience.
“By integrating clean energy solutions like the solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine, we are demonstrating how innovation can strengthen environmental responsibility while improving quality of life. This hub is a testament to what is possible when we combine commitment with action, and it sets the stage for even greater impact across the communities we serve.”
The launch event was attended by top executives from Sahara Group and Asharami Synergy, including Sahara Group Foundation Board Trustees, the Asharami Synergy management team, as well as representatives from Egbin Power Plc. Traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and other dignitaries were also present to witness the milestone.
Executive Director of Sahara Group, Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, highlighted the broader significance of the project. She remarked, “The success of the Lekki Sahara Go-Recycling Hub is a powerful reminder that sustainable change happens when communities, technology, and purpose come together. This hub is not just collecting recyclables; it is inspiring new habits, creating economic value, and proving that cleaner, greener cities are possible when we all play our part. We are proud of what this hub represents and even more excited about the impact it will continue to make across Lagos and beyond.”
Board Trustee of Sahara Group Foundation and Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, Dr Anthony Youdeowei, praised the collaboration between Sahara Group Foundation, Asharami Synergy, the Sahara Group 2025 Graduate Management Trainees, and Eco Barter. He described the initiative as a reflection of the organisation’s belief that sustainability should be practical, accessible, and community-driven.
Representing the 2025 Graduate Management Trainees, Elushade Oluwatumininu shared the group’s experience: “As Graduate Management Trainees, being part of the Lekki Go-Recycling Hub project through our PSCR project has been a meaningful way to live out Sahara’s sustainability values. Seeing the hub’s impact, from promoting recycling habits to empowering the community, reinforces how small actions can drive real change. We’re proud to be part of this initiative.”
Since its inception, the Sahara Go-Recycling Initiative has collected more than 650 tonnes of recyclable waste and facilitated payouts exceeding ₦55 million to beneficiaries. Over 1,200 households have been positively impacted, benefiting from income opportunities and improved environmental awareness.
Rita Idehai, CEO of Eco Barter, commended the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with the Sahara Group Foundation on the Lekki Go-Recycling Hub demonstrates the power of collaboration in accelerating sustainable change. Together, we are creating a system that rewards responsible disposal, supports local livelihoods, and brings technology-driven recycling closer to the community.”
Reiterating the Foundation’s vision, Menakaya added, “The Sahara Go-Recycling project is creating a ripple effect across Lagos, enabling households and communities to see value in responsible waste management. Through strategic partnerships, we are amplifying impact and building sustainable ecosystems for future generations.” She noted that with Ijede joining the network, the organisation is one step closer to achieving a fully circular economy.
Sahara Group Foundation plans to expand the Go-Recycling Initiative to additional communities across Lagos and other parts of Africa, continuing its mission of “Building Sustainable Communities through EXTRApreneurship.”
