From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri
The Imo State government has commissioned a waste recycling and training centre which will provide hands-on skills to youths on how to convert plastic, cans, and paper into useful products.
While commissioning the skill centre during the celebration of 2025 World Environment Day in Owerri with the theme ” Ending plastic pollution in Nigeria “, the State Commissioner for Environment and Sanitation , Ejikeme Emenike explained that it will provide job opportunities for the youths and clean environment for the State.
He thanked the Ike Odoeme Foundation for the establishment of the centre and promised government’s support . Emenike also announced that the waste bin product from the centre would be distributed across the communities and schools in the State to enhance a clean environment.
In her key note address during the ceremony, Executive Director of the foundation, Sylvie Marie said “This is not just about waste management, it is about empowering the next generation to become solution creators, environmental defenders, and economic contributors.”
Marie also seized the opportunity to announced a tree planting campaign at the Otammiri River bank, targeting erosion-prone areas. Indigenous and economically viable trees she added would be planted to protect the environment and provide long-term benefits to communities.
“Each tree planted is a barrier of protection, a source of sustenance, and a gift to future generations. If we do not protect the land, the land will eventually reject us,” she said.
The State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, was represented at the event by his deputy , Lady Chinyere Ekomaru who commended the ministry of environment and the Foundation for organising the event .
The event also featured a commemorative lecture by Prof. Maurice Obasi, who analysed the causes and consequences of plastic pollution in Nigeria. He called for policy reforms, public education, and community-driven solutions to the crisis.