Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social impact arm of Sahara Group, has unveiled its 16th Sahara Go-Recycling Hub in Lekki, Lagos State, introducing a solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine (RVM) to the initiative and signalling a major push toward technology-driven, sustainable waste management.
The Lekki hub marks a strategic expansion of the Foundation’s footprint, building on the success of 15 existing hubs across Lagos. The integration of solar-powered RVM technology represents a pioneering step in coupling clean energy with circular-economy principles, enabling residents to recycle household waste while earning income.
“Beyond environmental responsibility, this hub represents a new path for innovation, economic opportunity, and community resilience,” said Chidilim Menakaya, director of Sahara Group Foundation. “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.”
The Sahara Go-Recycling Initiative is designed to promote a circular economy by reducing waste, enhancing resource recovery, and empowering communities. Since its inception, the program has collected more than 650 tonnes of recyclable waste and disbursed over N55 million to beneficiaries, positively impacting more than 1,200 households across Lagos.
Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, executive director of Sahara Group, emphasised the initiative’s broader significance.
“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.”
The hub is a product of collaboration between Sahara Group Foundation, Asharami Synergy, Sahara Group’s 2025 Graduate Management Trainees, and Eco Barter. Anthony Youdeowei, Board Trustee of Sahara Group Foundation and MD of Sahara Power Group, described the partnership as reflective of a commitment to practical, community-driven sustainability.
Elushade Oluwatumininu, representing the 2025 Graduate Management Trainees, highlighted the project’s grassroots impact: “Being part of the Lekki Go-Recycling Hub 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.”
Rita Idehai, CEO of Eco Barter, also commended the partnership. “Our collaboration demonstrates the power of collective action 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.”
Looking ahead, Sahara Group Foundation plans to expand the Go-Recycling Initiative to additional communities in Lagos and across Africa, reinforcing its mission of “Building Sustainable Communities through EXTRApreneurship.” Menakaya concluded, “Through strategic partnerships, we are amplifying impact and building sustainable ecosystems for future generations. With Lekki now part of our network, we are one step closer to a truly circular economy in Nigeria.”
