The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to transition from a linear economy to a circular economy in order to keep pace with developed nations.
During a media dialogue on the circular economy, NESREA’s Director General, Dr. Innocent Barikor, underscored the necessity of this shift, explaining that the linear economic model — which relies on a “take-make-use-dispose” approach — is insufficient to meet Nigeria’s high economic demands and development goals. The dialogue aimed to enhance media understanding of the circular economy and its potential to drive sustainable growth.
Barikor stated, “Circular economy is a sustainable model that reduces waste by promoting the reuse, recycling, and refurbishment of products. It keeps materials in circulation for as long as possible, minimizing waste and pollution, which is critical to our nation’s development.”
He highlighted NESREA’s efforts to implement circular economy principles through the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programme, which ensures that manufacturers, producers, and importers are responsible for the entire life cycle of their products. Under this system, products are reclaimed and repurposed, reducing waste at landfills and creating secondary raw materials for new production.
Mrs. Bintu Kolo Mohammed, Director of Partnership and Education at NESREA, further explained that adopting a circular economy is essential not only for environmental protection but also for economic prosperity. “It represents a fundamental shift in how we think about our relationship with the environment,” she said, emphasizing the role of the media in promoting these principles.
The circular economy model, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and waste, is expected to generate wealth and job opportunities while safeguarding Nigeria’s natural resources and biodiversity. NESREA believes this shift will lead to a more sustainable and prosperous future, benefiting both businesses and society as a whole.
