By Ebenezer Mabinuola
The Lagos State Government has strengthened its commitment to inclusive climate action with the successful rollout of the Eco-Circulate Ayobo Initiative – a dynamic community programme designed to promote circular economy practices, climate education, and waste-to-value exchange at the grassroots level.
Spearheaded by the Office of Climate Change and Circular Economy under the Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget (MEPB), the initiative aims to embed sustainability into everyday life, especially among nano and micro-enterprises.
The Ayobo edition stood out for its innovative partnership with New Dawn Redeemed Church, which incorporated the programme into its annual Women’s Week. This collaboration was driven by Mrs. Olayinka Ojo, Permanent Secretary of MEPB and Assistant Pastor in the church’s province, who recognized the alignment between faith-based community outreach and the goals of Eco-Circulate.
The programme recorded an impressive response, with residents submitting 1,637.74 kilograms of recyclable materials, including textiles, plastics, metals, cartons, and paper. In return, participants received food items, gas vouchers, household essentials, and cash -underscoring the initiative’s unique approach to making sustainability economically rewarding.
A highlight of the event was the Junk Yard Sale, where community members donated or sold gently-used clothing, footwear, and household goods at little or no cost, fostering reuse and social solidarity.
Following successful engagements in Badagry, Ajah, and Trade Fair, the Ayobo edition exemplifies how strategic partnerships and local incentives can galvanize public participation. As Lagos scales up Eco-Circulate, it continues to model a future where climate action is accessible, impactful, and community-driven.
