A non-governmental organisation (NGO), Green Janitors Sustainable Initiative, has urged Nigerians to cultivate the habit of waste recycling in order to ensure a cleaner and safer environment.
Alhaji Abdulsalam Ashade, Founder and Executive Director of Green Janitors, gave the advice in a message on Tuesday, March 18, in commemoration of 2025 Global Recycling Day in Lagos.
“As part of the circular economy, recycling helps conserve our precious resources and reduce pollution.
“By reusing materials instead of extracting new resources, recycling prevents waste from piling up and keeps our environment cleaner and safer.
“Already, the Seventh Resource recyclables saves over 700 million tons of CO2 emissions annually. By 2030, that number is expected to reach 1 billion tons.
“This is not just statistic, it’s a vital component in the fight to save our planet for future generations
“Every bottle recycled, every piece of paper repurposed, every ounce of plastic diverted from landfills contributes to a healthier, more sustainable world.
“Every year, the planet yields billions of tons of natural resources, but the harsh reality is that these resources are finite,” he said.
Asade warned that the natural reaources would reach a point where it would start to run out, sooner than expected.
He also urged Nigerians not to view waste as something to discard, but as an opportunity to preserve, repurpose, and restore.
“The last decade was the hottest on record, a clear signal that we are facing a climate crisis unlike anything humanity has seen before.
“If we do not act swiftly and decisively, we will continue to witness rising global temperatures, melting ice caps, raging wildfires, and deforestation at an alarming rate.
“At Green Janitors, we are proud to be part of this global movement, driving change and making a lasting impact.
“Together, we are on the front lines of a war for the future of our planet and humanity.
“Thank you to all our recycling champions who help turn waste into resources and are instrumental in protecting our planet.
“Your dedication gives hope for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future,” the executive director said.
By Raji Rasak