By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA — Nigeria has launched a national digital platform to connect citizens and businesses with recycling and waste management service providers, in a move aimed at improving coordination and expanding multi-billion naira opportunities in the sector.

The Nigerian Waste Management Directory (NIWAD) 1.0, developed in partnership with the Embassy of Sweden in Nigeria, was unveiled in Abuja.

The platform is a searchable online directory that allows users to find verified recycling, upcycling, and waste management providers by location and service type, addressing gaps in access to information and weak links between providers and users for economic purposes.

The launch coincided with the International Day of Zero Waste and drew diplomats, government officials, private sector representatives, and development partners.

Sweden’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Anna Westerholm, who spoke on the broader significance of the initiative for governance and economic opportunity, highlighted the platform’s role in improving transparency, decision-making, and multi-billion naira opportunities within the circular economy.

Mayokun Iyaomolere, Founder and Executive Director of Plogging Nigeria, developers of the platform, highlighted the platform’s long-term value for data-driven planning and investment.

“it is a foundational tool for policymakers, investors, and researchers seeking structured data to support sustainable waste management and infrastructural development in Nigeria,” Iyaomolere said.

During a panel session, participants pointed to the role of data in improving oversight and planning in the sector.

Acting Director of Solid Waste Management at the Abuja Environmental Protection Board, Atiku Abubakar Abdullah, addressed operational gaps in tracking sector activities.

Building on this, Secretary of the Recyclers Association of Nigeria, Cajetan Okeke, spoke on the environmental implications of improved waste systems.

Shifting focus to public engagement, Daniel Oladoja of the Global Strategic Communications Council highlighted the role of communication in strengthening the sector.

Organisers said work is ongoing, with plans to expand data collection across states and local government areas, include informal waste collectors, and introduce tools such as a mobile application and recycling volume tracking.

Representatives from Finland and Norway also attended the event and noted the platform’s role in improving the visibility of recycling activities in Nigeria.