By Chioma Obinna

Inconsistent waste data has been identified as an obstacle to Nigeria’s environmental progress, and undermining efforts to meet international sustainability commitments like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Amidst these challenges, Luther Kington Nwobodo, founder of Zgnis Analytics, has introduced a creative innovation designed to fill the gap.

In a chat with Vanguard, Luther shared the journey of Zgnis Analytics, the challenges of running a tech-driven sustainability platform, and the broader implications for Nigeria’s tech and environmental sectors.
Genesis of the innovation.

He said: “When I was part of a team evaluating the impact of plastic waste in Nigeria, we struggled due to the lack of accurate and comprehensive data across locations.

“This data deficiency not only affects reporting obligations but also discourages investors and limits public awareness of waste management initiatives. “

He explained that Zgnis Analytics was created to address these challenges by providing actionable insights into waste and recycling data.

Launched on May 22, 2023, the platform according to him, serves as a robust data warehousing and analytics tool, offering real-time waste data across various locations in Nigeria. Unlike other sustainability-focused applications, Zgnis Analytics is entirely dedicated to data generation and analytics, a niche solution in an increasingly competitive tech space.

“Access to the app is free, but there are protocols in place to ensure the data remains accurate and comprehensive,” Luther explained.

Breaking into Nigeria’s Tech Scene

Luther lauded the growth of Nigeria’s tech industry, particularly its thriving startup ecosystem and the global recognition of its fintech innovations. “However, there are challenges that need urgent attention, including limited government support for tech-driven solutions in environmental sustainability,” he noted.

Despite these hurdles, he said the organisation has managed to onboard over 100 users since its launch, comprising companies, vendors, and international donor agencies. The app continues to attract attention for its ability to generate reliable waste data, a key component in driving policy and investment decisions.

Overcoming challenges

He said running a business in Nigeria, especially one focused on environmental data, is not without its difficulties.

He highlighted user onboarding as a primary challenge. “Some potential users are skeptical, thinking the government might use the platform for tax-related purposes.”

“However, we’ve been transparent about the platform’s mission, which is solely focused on environmental sustainability.”

Another pressing issue is the general lack of public engagement in waste management initiatives.
He stressed the need for the Ministry of Environment to take a more active role in promoting platforms like Zgnis Analytics to encourage adoption.

Funding and growth

Unlike many startups, funding was not a major challenge for Zgnis Analytics. Luther attributed this to the clarity of the platform’s mission. “Our investors understood the value of the project from the onset, and we were able to secure the necessary funds.”

The platform’s growth has been steady but deliberate, with a focus on building a strong foundation. “We’ve taken a slow and steady approach to onboarding users, and we’re making progress. Collaboration with individuals, organizations, and international agencies will be key to achieving our ultimate objectives,” he added.

Advice to entrepreneurs

When asked for advice from aspiring entrepreneurs, Luther emphasised resilience and focus.
“Start small, be focused, and grow organically. Success doesn’t come overnight, but with the right mindset, you can overcome challenges,” he said.

Future

Looking to the future, Zgnis Analytics aims to expand its user base and increase its impact, he said: “We want to see more stakeholders actively engaging with the platform. Collaboration is essential, and we’re open to partnerships with the government and private sector to scale our operations.”

As Nigeria grapples with the environmental and economic costs of poor waste management, innovations like Zgnis Analytics offer a path forward.

“Accurate data is the foundation of effective environmental policy,” Luther concluded. “Without it, we cannot address the pressing challenges of waste management and sustainability. Zgnis Analytics is here to change that narrative.”