By Merit Ibe
In commemoration of World Environment Day 2025, Lafarge Africa Plc, has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling Nigeria’s plastic waste crisis through scalable and circular economy practices.
The building solutions company and producer of a range of cement brands, said to mark the event, the company championed sustainable practices through impactful initiatives and engaged in vital awareness campaigns on waste segregation and PET bottle recycling, demonstrating how plastic waste can be recycled and transformed into useful items.
The activities were carried out across its host communities in Lagos, Sagamu, Ewekoro, Ashaka and Mfamosing.
In his remarks, the GMD/CEO, Lafarge Africa Plc., Lolu Alade-Akinyemi reiterated the company’s role as a leading sustainability-driven organization dedicated to environmental responsibility. “At Lafarge Africa, we have never believed in doing business at the expense of the environment. We continue to rethink our processes, invest in innovation, and ensure that sustainability remains at the core of our strategy. I am proud to say that we continue to lead the way in circular economy solutions through Geocycle.”
Speaking on this year’s theme “Beat Plastic Pollution”, Director, Health, Safety and Environment, Lafarge Africa Plc, Rachael Ezembakwe said that the company is committed to positive climate action that positively impacts the environment. “We are focused on minimizing our footprint and ensuring that our operations do not become a burden to the communities we serve.”
She called for collective action in preserving the environment, “Let us all remember that we are protecting the environment not just for ourselves, but for the future of our children,” she said.
Delivering the keynote address, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Climate Change and Circular Economy, Titilayo Oshodi, noted that while Lagos State government continues to drive waste reforms through education, behavioral change and recycling incentives, partnerships with companies like Lafarge Africa are essential to scaling impact.
In the same vein, the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Cross River state, Hon. Moses Osogi, expressed gratitude to Lafarge Africa for its continued commitment to protecting the environment; acknowledging the company’s numerous initiatives to help create healthier, more resilient communities for present and future generations.
Other activities held to commemorate the day include environmental sensitization campaign in Ashaka, and Ewekoro Plants, tree planting activities in communities like Lapeleke, Ogun state and Mfamosing, Cross River state to support ecosystem restoration and climate action efforts, as well as a clean-up exercise at the community market.