TechnoServe and Coca-Cola launch Plastic Recycling Programme Nigeria 2.0 in Kano, creating jobs and reducing plastic waste nationwide

TechnoServe and The Coca-Cola Foundation on Wednesday launched the Plastic Recycling Programme Nigeria 2.0 (PReP 2.0) in Kano, marking the expansion of the initiative to the North-West and aiming to scale plastic recycling while creating jobs.

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The programme builds on the success of its first phase in southern Nigeria and is designed to develop an inclusive recycling system, strengthen livelihoods, and promote sustainable environmental solutions nationwide.

Speaking at the launch, Nigeria Country Director of TechnoServe, Adesuwa Akinboro, described Kano as a strategic hub for this phase.

“By expanding PReP 2.0 to the North-West, we are not only addressing plastic waste challenges but also unlocking economic opportunities for thousands of young people and women,” she said.

According to the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, Nigeria generates about 2.5 million metric tonnes of plastic waste annually, much of which ends up in drainage systems and communities, posing environmental and health risks.

Since inception, PReP has diverted over 59,000 metric tonnes of plastic waste, created and improved approximately 10,000 livelihoods, and built a network of 51 aggregators across Lagos and Anambra states.

Akinboro said the new phase would strengthen the recycling value chain further through training, equipment support, and access to finance.

“These are not just numbers; they are real stories of transformation. Individuals have moved from informal waste picking to becoming structured business owners contributing meaningfully to the economy,” she added.

The President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, Carlos Pagoaga, affirmed the organisation’s commitment to environmental sustainability and community development in Nigeria.

“Through PReP 2.0, we are scaling solutions that reduce plastic waste, cut emissions, and improve livelihoods. Our goal is to build a cleaner environment while empowering communities to thrive,” he said.

The new phase is expected to create and improve an additional 2,400 jobs and divert about 32,000 metric tonnes of plastic waste, while promoting gender inclusion, environmental education, and behavioural change.

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Stakeholders noted that the initiative arrives at a critical time as Nigeria seeks innovative approaches to growing waste management challenges, highlighting the importance of partnerships between the private sector and development organisations for sustainable outcomes.