By News Desk
A non-governmental organization focused on environmental justice, Community Development Advocacy Foundation, CODAF, has officially launched a transformative “Multi-Solving Methane Reduction Initiative” in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State.
Assistant Director of Campaigns at CODAF, Mr. Onyeka Titigbe said that the flagship project, which is anchored by the newly established Methane Reduction Facility, MRF, aims to combat climate change by reducing methane emissions from decomposing waste while empowering communities to embrace a zero-waste lifestyle.
He said: “This initiative targets organic and inorganic waste conversion to promote sustainable environmental practices, job creation, and wealth generation.
“The MRF in Epe is not just a waste management facility; it is a blueprint for sustainable living. It’s designed to process up to 200 tonnes of waste weekly while minimizing landfill reliance and turning waste into valuable resources.”
According to him, the implementation of the project involves multiple components including: “Training of Zero Waste Ambassadors to champion household waste sorting and public awareness.
“Inauguration of a Zero Waste Farmers Network, who will be equipped to convert organic waste into compost using eco-friendly methods like Black Soldier Fly cultivation.
“Collaboration with the Waste Pickers Association, offering incentives and structured engagement in exchange for collected recyclable materials.
“Community Participation, with CODAF creating employment opportunities and ensuring that the project will be handed over to the Epe community after two years of operation.”
Titigbe emphasized, “We’re not just managing waste, we’re redesigning how communities perceive and interact with waste. From collection to sorting to conversion, the community plays a central role.”
Also speaking, National President of Zero Waste Ambassadors, ZeWA, Mr. Faith Paulinus, officially launched the Epe ZeWA chapter and tasked the newly inaugurated executive team with mobilizing advocacy, community action, and policy influence.
He charged: “You have a mandate to discourage environmentally harmful practices and promote zero waste as a lifestyle,” he charged.
Farmers, local leaders, and waste pickers expressed optimism and pride in being part of the project.
Speaking on their behalf, President of the Farmers Association in Epe LGA, Mrs. Shabi Aminat Shade, hailed the initiative as a “game-changer” for Epe.
She said: “We’re already sorting and saving our plastics and cartons. This is not just waste; it’s wealth. CODAF’s project will create jobs, cleaner surroundings, and even organic feed for our fish and livestock.”
Also, a veteran waste picker Hakeem Genti, now an ambassador, noted: “This is what we have always dreamed of, recognition and structure.
“We know the waste types, we have been sorting for 15 years, and we are ready to help grow this initiative.”
Livestock farmer and new ambassador, Mr. Oladele Ismail Oluwaseyi, reinforced the community’s readiness.
He stated: “Epe is known as one of the cleanest LGAs in Lagos, and we are determined to keep it that way through this project.”
The facility consists of three primary zones: Sorting Section: For textile, paper, plastic, electronics, and hazardous waste separation.
Organic Waste Section: Converts biodegradable waste to compost using Black Soldier Fly larvae.
And Reproduction Section (Love Net): A breeding zone for flies used in compost production.
According to the NGO, the initiative was sited in Epe due to its strong farming culture and overwhelming community support.
It noted: “CODAF secured two plots of land from the local government and intends to hand over full control of the project to the Epe community after a two-year incubation.”
Meanwhile, the NGO hopes to replicate the model across Lagos and beyond while influencing public policy through agencies such as LAWMA, LASEMA, and the Ministry of Environment.
