Dangote, E-Terra Seek Stronger Collaboration to Tackle Nigeria’s Growing e-waste Challenge

The Dangote Cement Circular Economy Champions Team, in collaboration with the E-waste Relief Foundation (ERF), recently paid a visit to E-Terra Technologies Ltd.'s Material Recovery and Recycling Facility (MRRF) in Lagos. The purpose of this visit was to explore practical knowledge, promote collaboration, and address the growing challenge of electronic waste (e-waste) in Nigeria.

During their tour, the team observed E-Terra's operations, which include e-waste collection, data destruction, sorting, dismantling, material recovery, and recycling. They also examined the company's commitment to environmental responsibility, occupational health and safety, quality management, traceability, and resource efficiency, all of which align with international management-system principles and global best practices.

Dr. Oyekemi Oyelola, the Team Lead of the Dangote Cement Circular Economy Champions Team, expressed her enthusiasm, stating that the experience had been eye-opening. She highlighted how waste can be systematically transformed into valuable resources and praised the organization's organization, technical processes, and commitment to sustainable waste management.

Chief Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwutem Ochonogor, CEO of E-Terra Technologies Ltd., welcomed the delegation and emphasized the importance of collaboration. He expressed his pleasure at hosting Dangote Cement and the ERF, noting that the visit provided an opportunity to work together in addressing environmental issues and safeguarding lives from the growing e-waste menace.

Mr. Jeremiah Ebeleme, Team Lead of the E-waste Relief Foundation, emphasized that the visit marked the beginning of a mutually beneficial approach to tackle Nigeria's e-waste crisis. He called for public sensitization, engagement with manufacturers, mobilization of government, involvement of opinion leaders, and encouragement of stakeholders to unite in confronting this growing issue.

E-Terra's Technical Director and Facility Coordinator, Mr. Patrick Inoh, guided the delegation through the facility, explaining the various stages of the recycling process and answering questions. He emphasized that a successful circular economy begins with understanding what happens to waste after it leaves homes, offices, and businesses, and stressed the importance of ensuring safe, responsible handling and transformation of materials into resources wherever possible.