Sahara Group Foundation, the social impact arm of Sahara Group, has opened its 16th Sahara Go-Recycling Hub in Lekki, Lagos State, further strengthening its ongoing efforts in sustainable waste management, environmental stewardship, and community development.
The new hub represents another major step in the Foundation’s expanding recycling network, building on the achievements of 15 earlier hubs established across Lagos, according to a statement released on Sunday.
Located in the Lekki area, the latest hub is particularly notable for being the first in the Sahara Go-Recycling network to incorporate a solar-powered Reverse Vending Machine.
This blend of clean energy and recycling technology marks a significant advancement in the Foundation’s commitment to promoting responsible waste disposal and encouraging community involvement in environmental sustainability.
With its energy-efficient system for receiving recyclables, the hub contributes to environmental preservation while improving resource recovery outcomes.
The Sahara Go-Recycling initiative was designed to support a circular economy model for waste management. Through this programme, the Foundation motivates individuals, families, and communities to embrace recycling as part of daily life, while also earning money from recyclable materials — a system that reduces pollution and offers additional sources of income for residents.
At the unveiling ceremony, the Director of Sahara Group Foundation, Chidilim Menakaya, said, “The launch of the Lekki Go-Recycling Hub goes beyond environmental responsibility; it represents a new path for innovation, economic opportunity, and community resilience.
“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. This hub is a testament to what is possible when we combine commitment with action, and it sets the stage for even greater impact across the communities we serve.”
The commissioning was attended by senior leaders from Sahara Group and Asharami Synergy, including members of the Sahara Group Foundation Board of Trustees, executives from Asharami Synergy, and representatives from Egbin Power Plc. Traditional leaders, community members, and other invited guests also witnessed the historic launch.
Executive Director of Sahara Group, Moroti Adedoyin-Adeyinka, also spoke on the significance of the project, noting, “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. We are proud of what this hub represents and even more excited about the impact it will continue to make across Lagos and beyond.”
Board Trustee of Sahara Group Foundation and Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, Dr Anthony Youdeowei, applauded the teamwork between Sahara Group Foundation, Asharami Synergy, the 2025 Graduate Management Trainees, and Eco Barter, describing the project as an example of the organisation’s belief in practical, accessible, community-focused sustainability.
Speaking on behalf of the 2025 Graduate Management Trainees, Elushade Oluwatumininu said, “As Graduate Management Trainees, being part of the Lekki Go-Recycling Hub project through our PSCR 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. We’re proud to be part of this initiative.”
Since its launch, the Sahara Go-Recycling Initiative has recovered over 650 tonnes of recyclable materials and disbursed more than ₦55 million to participants. More than 1,200 households have benefitted, gaining income opportunities and heightened environmental consciousness.
Eco Barter CEO, Rita Idehai, also lauded the partnership, saying, “Our collaboration with the Sahara Group Foundation on the Lekki Go-Recycling Hub demonstrates the power of collaboration 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.”
Reaffirming the Foundation’s mission, Menakaya added, “The Sahara Go-Recycling project is creating a ripple effect across Lagos, enabling households and communities to see value in responsible waste management. Through strategic partnerships, we are amplifying impact and building sustainable ecosystems for future generations.” She said the addition of Ijede to the network brings the group closer to its vision of a functioning circular economy.
Sahara Group Foundation intends to expand the Go-Recycling Initiative into more communities across Lagos and other African regions as it continues its mission of “Building Sustainable Communities through EXTRApreneurship.”