Cross River State Government has launched a training programme to equip youths with practical skills in recycling and green entrepreneurship, as part of its broader push towards building a sustainable “waste-to-wealth” economy.
The initiative was unveiled during a two-day capacity-building workshop themed “Transforming Waste to Wealth & Transitioning to a Circular Economy,” bringing together key stakeholders, environmental experts, development partners, and young participants from across the state. The programme is designed to provide hands-on learning opportunities that enable youths to convert waste into viable economic ventures while contributing to environmental sustainability.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Environment, Moses Osogi, described the training as a critical step in repositioning the state’s economy and addressing environmental challenges through innovation and youth participation. He emphasised that the government is intentional about creating opportunities within the green sector that young people can tap into.
According to him, “the gathering is aimed at igniting a revolution of green entrepreneurship among youths,” aligning with the “People First” agenda of Governor Bassey Otu. He added that the state must rethink its approach to waste management in light of growing climate concerns.
Osogi noted, “we must shift from seeing waste as a burden to recognising it as a reservoir of untapped economic value,” stressing that recycling and reuse can open up new streams of income while reducing environmental degradation.
The training programme is supported by partners including the Recyclers Association of Nigeria (RAN) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), who are contributing technical expertise and funding to ensure effective delivery. Participants are being exposed to practical knowledge in waste sorting, recycling processes, and entrepreneurship skills needed to build sustainable businesses within the circular economy.
Beyond the environmental focus, the initiative also reflects a broader commitment to inclusive development. UNICEF highlighted ongoing efforts under the Girls Education Skills Partnership (GESP), implemented by Sightsavers, which complements the training by equipping girls and young women with disabilities with relevant skills for sustainable livelihoods.
Chief of UNICEF’s Lagos Office, Céline Lafourrière, underscored the importance of inclusion in such programmes, stating that “leaving no one behind remains a key priority.” She pointed out that girls living with disabilities face unique challenges, particularly when limited access to education affects their ability to benefit from opportunities.
“Girls living with disabilities are particularly important,” she said, noting that visual impairment combined with low literacy levels makes access to support even more difficult.
