FCT launches recycling hub to pay residents for trash

The federal capital territory administration has launched a recycling hub where residents will be paid in exchange for proper waste disposal.

The ‘Cash 4 Trash’ hub, located in Nyanya suburb, was unveiled on Thursday following a partnership between the FCTA and WASTE Africa, a non-governmental organisation (NGO).

Waste management has remained a major problem in most parts of Nigeria, with the country said to generate more than 30 million tons of solid waste every year, out of which only about 30 percent is collected. 

Ramatu Aliyu, FCT minister of state, said the initiative is part of measures to control indiscriminate waste disposal in the FCT, describing it as “an ingenious way of getting money through trash”.

Aliyu said the scheme will also help in erosion control, as drainage systems blocked with litter has been one of the major factors contributing to flooding in parts of the FCT.

“This scheme will go a long way in controlling blockages on our streets and drainages by ensuring that waste is exchanged for cash,” she said.

“Trash to wealth will also empower our youths to earn a legitimate income. The era of sitting down and doing nothing has gone.

“The federal capital territory administration through the satellite towns development department is partnering with all these bodies and more to ensure that you can pick up some litter and get some money.”