In a renewed push for environmental sustainability, the E-waste Relief Foundation (ERF), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to addressing electronic waste challenges in Nigeria, has called for more responsible e-waste management practices—particularly in Lagos, a state grappling with rising electronic waste levels due to rapid urbanization and digital consumption.

The call was made during a press briefing held yesterday ahead of the 2025 edition of the Lagos E-Waste Handlers Capacity Enhancement Programme (LEHCEP), scheduled to take place on Thursday, April 17, 2025, at The Bunker, Lagos.

Dr. Ifeanyi Ochonogor, Founder and President of ERF, underscored the urgent need for improved strategies in the collection, sorting, and recycling of e-waste in Lagos and beyond. He noted that sustainable management of electronic waste could significantly reduce pollution, safeguard public health, and unlock economic opportunities.

Turning Waste into Wealth

“The benefits of proper e-waste management cannot be overstated,” Dr. Ochonogor emphasized. “When done responsibly, it doesn't just curb environmental degradation—it also stimulates job creation and supports entrepreneurship. There are real economic and health benefits tied to proper handling and recycling of electronic devices.”

He pointed out that Lagos, as a commercial and technological hub, produces a significant volume of e-waste, much of which is poorly managed. This not only results in harmful environmental consequences but also leads to the loss of recoverable resources such as copper, gold, and other valuable metals found in electronic devices.

Training for Impact

LEHCEP, the Foundation’s flagship initiative, aims to address these challenges through hands-on training and capacity-building sessions for individuals and organisations involved in e-waste handling. The programme is designed to enhance technical skills, promote safety, and ensure environmental compliance among local e-waste handlers.

“Through LEHCEP, we aim to equip handlers with the knowledge and tools needed to manage electronic waste in a way that is both safe and sustainable,” Dr. Ochonogor said. “We are building a workforce that can support a circular economy while protecting the health of our communities.”

A Call to Action

ERF’s advocacy highlights the importance of a collaborative approach to environmental stewardship. The Foundation is calling on government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and community leaders to support responsible e-waste initiatives and invest in scalable recycling infrastructure.

As the countdown to LEHCEP 2025 begins, the E-waste Relief Foundation hopes to catalyze a shift in public perception and policy, driving Lagos—and Nigeria—toward a cleaner, greener future.