WorldStage Newsonline– Nestlé Nigeria Plc has trained 100 plastic waste workers across Lagos and Abuja as part of its ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability and social inclusion.
A statement signed by Toju Egbebi, Corporate Affairs Manager at Nestlé Nigeria said the training was part of its comprehensive Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) Training Programme.
According to her, the initiative aims to enhance the safety and wellbeing of these invaluable workers while empowering them and promoting their dignity within the plastics recycling value chain.
She said the training was supported by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), the Recyclers Association of Nigeria, and the Food Beverage Recycling Alliance.
She said the training encompassed essential topics such as best practices in occupational health and safety, responsible handling of recyclable materials, fire prevention and rescue techniques, and the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
She added that each participant would also receive PPE kits to ensure safer working conditions, fostering a healthier environment for both workers and their communities.
She said the initiative underscored the collective commitment of Nestlé Nigeria to promote environmental sustainability and generate positive social impact.
She added that by ensuring that plastic waste workers acquire the skills necessary for healthier, more productive lives, we contribute to a more sustainable circular economy.
She explained that the SHE training programme, which was implemented by ImpactCrest Consulting aligns seamlessly with Nestlé’s dedication to enhancing quality of life and fostering a healthier future for individuals and families, as well as the planet.
“Together, we are taking significant steps towards a more sustainable and inclusive future,” she added.
She quoted Victoria Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Sustainability Lead for Nestlé Nigeria, as articulating the company’s motivation for the initiative.
Uwadoka highlighted Nestlé’s commitment to building a waste-free future and the recognition of the role that the waste workers play in bringing this vision to life.
“At Nestlé, we are committed to building a waste-free future and recognise the crucial role plastic waste workers play in reducing pollution and facilitating a circular economy.
“This training is a vital component of our support for this key stakeholder group, enhancing Nigeria’s waste management infrastructure.
“By equipping these essential workers with the necessary skills and knowledge, we help to improve their quality of life while increasing their employability and boost productivity within a sustainable waste management framework,” Uwadoka said.
She also quoted Prof. Innocent Barikor, the Director-General, NESREA, as praising Nestlé’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
“I commend Nestlé Nigeria Plc. for its commitment towards environmental sustainability and for prioritizing the health and safety of those at the frontline of waste management.
“Waste workers are often unrecognised yet play a crucial role in our national effort to combat plastic pollution in our environment.
“The focus on training waste workers is commendable, especially at a time when the world is seeking solutions to the prevailing challenges relating to plastic waste management,” Barikor said.
Responding on behalf of the trainees at the Lagos event, the statement quoted Mr Mayowa Elefin, the Managing Director, Maladase Ecopreneur Management Company Ltd., described the training as an impactful initiative.
“This training is an impactful initiative which aligns with our commitment to promoting a safe, healthy, and sustainable work environment across our plastic recycling value chain.
“It has provided valuable knowledge and practical skills that will greatly benefit our staff, enhancing their capacity to maintain safe operations, ensure healthier workplaces, and ultimately improve productivity,” he said.
