The Lagos State Government and C40 Cities on Monday partnered to launch the Ikosi Fruit Market Biodigester Plant for the conversion of generated organic waste into energy, marking a step in the state’s drive for sustainable waste management and clean energy solutions.
Speaking during the handing over ceremony at the Ketu Fruit Market, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, said the facility is a success for the Ikosi community, Lagos State and generations to come. He said the project shows how environmental challenges can be turned into opportunities that support people and the economy.
Wahab explained that Lagos State and C40 Cities were not commissioning a facility but unveiling a vision on how the state can rethink waste and turn everyday problems into opportunities. According to him, the biogas plant represents a step in re-imagining waste, not as a burden, but as a resource that can drive sustainability, resilience and inclusive growth.
He emphasized that the biogas produced from the facility would be used for electricity and cooking gas, while the organic fertilizer can be packaged and sold back to local farmers. He said this approach would strengthen the food system by improving soil quality, closing the nutrient loop and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
The commissioner added that the facility will collect organic waste generated within the market and feed it into an anaerobic digester. He explained that in this environment, natural bacteria break down the waste without oxygen to produce biogas. He said the process also results in the production of biofertilizer through a biological transformation that delivers two products.
According to Wahab, “The project goes far beyond Ikosi. It reflects a bigger ambition for Lagos State. The initiative is being implemented in partnership with C40 Cities and UK International Development under the Climate Action Implementation programme.” He added that through this collaboration, Lagos continues to show leadership by translating international climate commitments into practical, community-level action.
Wahab said the biogas plant is more than machinery and pipes but a symbol of transformation. He said the launch affirms a truth that the future of sustainable cities is built not only in boardrooms and policy documents, but in markets, communities and daily activities of residents.
He explained that Ikosi Fruit Market generates organic waste daily, including fruit peels, vegetable trimmings and unsold produce, similar to many markets across Lagos State. He said these materials have traditionally ended up in landfills or open dumps, contributing to sanitation challenges across urban communities.
He noted that the project has transformed this problem into a solution, adding that instead of rotting in dumps, organic waste from the market will now be converted into biogas for cooking and electricity. He added that the production of fertilizer supports circular economy principles by reducing emissions, creating value and improving livelihoods.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Environmental Services, GAJI Omobolaji, said the project represents the power of innovation, collaboration and technology. He said traders have long struggled with waste management challenges and described the biodigester plant as a solution that transforms waste into valuable resources.
In his speech, the C40 Cities Regional Director, Africa, Anthony Okoth, expressed appreciation for the completion of the project. He said C40 Cities collaborates with 14 countries across Africa, noting that Lagos is the largest among them and the partnership addresses sanitation, waste management and climate change challenges in cities across the region and surrounding urban market environments.
