A British investor and CEO of Hinckley E-Waste Recycling Ltd, Adrian Clews, announced on Wednesday that Nigeria ranks as the second-largest producer of electronic waste in Africa, following South Africa.
He highlighted that the country generates approximately 200,000 metric tonnes of electronic waste annually, which poses significant environmental and health risks.
Clews made this announcement during a press briefing hosted by the Ogun State government at the Olusegun Osoba Press Centre in Abeokuta. He revealed plans for a $5 million lithium-ion and lead-acid battery recycling plant in the state, aimed at transforming this environmental challenge into a viable business opportunity, creating at least 100 direct jobs.
Accompanying Clews at the briefing were key officials, including the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya; the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Mr. Adebola Sofela; and the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery.
“Electronic waste is among the most toxic forms of waste globally, and Nigeria’s annual electronic waste output of over 200,000 tonnes poses a serious threat to public health and the environment,” Clews stated. “At Hinckley, we are excited to establish Africa’s first lithium battery recycling plant here in Ogun State, supported by the Manufacturing Africa initiative of the UK government.”
He emphasized the dangers posed by lead, a heavy metal found in batteries, noting the prevalence of informal recycling practices that often lack proper safety standards. “This investment will help raise recycling standards significantly,” he added, projecting completion of the state-of-the-art facility within the next 12 months.
Commissioner Oresanya commended the initiative, stating that Ogun State has consistently led the way in effective environmental waste management. He noted that the state is a hub for recycling, processing over 1,400 metric tonnes of plastic bottles daily, along with substantial quantities of ferrous and non-ferrous metals and paper.
“There are currently seven companies engaged in battery recycling in the state, and we will provide Hinckley E-Waste with the necessary support to ensure their success,” Oresanya assured.
The British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, remarked that the establishment of this recycling facility exemplifies the UK government’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians. He reiterated his country’s intention to invest in various sectors, including energy, technology, and agricultural processing, while exploring further opportunities for UK-linked businesses in the state.
Commissioner Sofela added that the Ogun State government is dedicated to fostering a conducive environment for investment, enhancing the ease of doing business to attract both local and international stakeholders.
