The President of the Abuja Scrap, Environmental Waste and Scavengers Association, Muntari Mohammed, has received the Legend Africa Excellence Award for his contribution to waste recycling and environmental management.
Mohammed was among dignitaries honoured at the event held at Hall 3 of Novare Centre, ShopRite, Abuja, on Thursday.
Presenting the award, the convener, Innocent, said the contribution of waste collectors and recyclers to Nigeria’s economy could not be ignored.
He said the sector contributes to revenue generation, employment creation and environmental sanitation.
Innocent urged governments at all levels to recognise and work with registered scrap and waste management associations.
He said the association had mechanisms for monitoring its members and discouraging activities that could damage critical government infrastructure.
According to him, stronger collaboration between government and the association would help maximise the economic and environmental benefits of recycling.
Responding, Mohammed expressed appreciation for the recognition.
He said the award would encourage him and other members of the association to intensify efforts to promote recycling and proper waste management.
Mohammed also appealed to Nigerians to change their perception of scrap collectors and scavengers.
He said the association had continued to sensitise its members against vandalising critical infrastructure.
“We have been doing our best to sensitise our members against vandalising critical infrastructure,” he said.
Mohammed called for greater collaboration between the association and relevant stakeholders to strengthen recycling and environmental management in Abuja and beyond.