The Federal Ministry of Youth Development has launched the Waste to Wealth – Circular Economy Youth Empowerment Initiative, a national programme designed to create thousands of green jobs by transforming waste into valuable resources. This innovative initiative supports young Nigerians in building sustainable businesses while contributing to climate action, environmental protection, and national economic growth.
Endorsed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and implemented under the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, the programme is one of Nigeria’s most ambitious youth-focused climate and economic empowerment projects.
What is the Waste to Wealth Initiative?
The Waste to Wealth Initiative is a large-scale youth empowerment programme that trains young Nigerians in circular economy skills—helping them convert waste materials into eco-friendly products, energy solutions, and commercially viable innovations.
The initiative aims to:
- Empower youths to become green entrepreneurs
- Reduce environmental pollution
- Promote climate action across communities
- Contribute to Nigeria’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- Create jobs through waste transformation industries
- Build local capacity in renewable energy and recycling technologies
More than just a training programme, Waste to Wealth is a movement toward a cleaner, greener, and more prosperous Nigeria.
Programme Impact (Live Tracker)
The Waste to Wealth programme is already recording nationwide engagement:
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Total Registered Youths: 24,389
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Active States & FCT: 37
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Widespread participation across all geopolitical zones
Top participating states include:
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Kano – 2,837
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Katsina – 2,014
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Kaduna – 1,981
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Bauchi – 1,326
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Zamfara – 1,288
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…and many more
This growing participation reflects a strong national interest in climate-smart skills and youth-led economic transformation.
Training Areas Under the Waste to Wealth Initiative
Participants will undergo hands-on training across strategic sectors of the circular economy:
1. Waste Recycling
Courses include:
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Plastic recycling
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Paper recycling
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Wood recycling
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Metal & scrap recycling
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Glass recycling
2. Upscaling & Upcycling
Creative and value-added reuse of materials, including:
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Textiles & craft design
3. Energy & Community Renewable Solutions
Youth are trained to build and maintain renewable energy solutions, such as:
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Solar technology
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Biodegradable energy
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Wind turbine systems
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Waste-to-fertiliser & animal feed solutions
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Solar stoves
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Electric vehicles & tricycles
4. Ecopreneurship
Business readiness and financial sustainability training:
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Capacity development
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Financial literacy
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Waste exportation
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Eco-literacy
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Product trading
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Reuse & repair business models
5. Biomass
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Afforestation & reforestation initiatives
6. Electronic Waste (E-Waste) Management
Courses include:
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Recycling of electronics (TVs, phones, appliances)
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Repair and reuse technology
Why the Waste to Wealth Initiative Matters
This initiative supports Nigeria’s transition to a circular economy by:
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Reducing national carbon emissions
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Minimising landfill waste
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Creating green jobs for youth
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Increasing environmental awareness
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Promoting sustainable economic development
It also aligns with:
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SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
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SDG 12: Responsible Consumption & Production
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SDG 13: Climate Action
Partners & Stakeholders
The Ministry welcomes partnerships from:
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Private companies
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International organizations
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NGOs
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Environmental groups
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Community-based organizations
These partnerships aim to support Nigerian youths while safeguarding the ecosystem.
Conclusion
The Waste to Wealth Initiative represents a transformative opportunity for young Nigerians to acquire future-ready skills in recycling, renewable energy, green technology, and ecopreneurship. By empowering youths to turn waste into economic value, the Federal Ministry of Youth Development is shaping a cleaner environment and a stronger national economy.
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