The French Embassy in Nigeria has spearheaded the establishment of a plastic waste recycling plant at Nile University in Abuja, aiming to bolster research, combat environmental pollution, and foster economic opportunities for Nigerians.
Professor Abdulhamid Mambo, Dean of the Faculty of Environmental Science, highlighted the plant’s significance during a visit by the Plastic Odyssey Team, creators of the Micro Plant. He emphasized its role in advancing university research and educating students on environmental stewardship.
“The recycling plant not only enhances our research capabilities but also trains students in sustainable waste management. By transforming plastic waste into valuable products, we instill a culture of environmental responsibility,” Professor Mambo explained.
The initiative, supported by partnerships with NGOs and utilizing plastic waste generated on campus, aims to pilot innovative solutions for local communities, paving the way for broader impact across Nigeria.
Jean-Baptiste Grassin, Technical Assistant Manager at Plastic Odyssey, outlined the project’s goals, emphasizing job creation and local infrastructure development through their Micro Factory model.
“We aim to transform plastic waste into usable products like construction materials and furniture, starting with Nile University as a pilot. Our goal is to expand this solution to other communities, addressing Nigeria’s plastic waste challenges,” Grassin stated.