Prof. Innocent Barikor, Director-General of the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), has called on Nigerian industrialists to leverage the benefits of a circular economy for environmental and economic gains.

He made the remarks during a training session organized in collaboration with ACCAPPOCCO Global Services Nigeria Limited in Ikeja, Lagos, themed “Circular Economy in Industries for Environmental Sustainability.”

Represented by Dr. Jonathan Dayal, Director of NESREA’s Lagos Liaison Office, Barikor emphasized that Nigeria’s successful transition to a sustainable economy largely depends on industries taking proactive steps.

“A circular economy is not merely an environmental imperative; it is a strategic economic opportunity that could position Nigerian industries at the forefront of Africa’s sustainable industrial revolution,” he said.

Barikor added, “Our goal is to foster partnerships that support industries in adopting cleaner technologies and generating sustainable revenue streams. Lasting change comes through collaboration, innovation, and shared commitments. Industry leaders are the architects of this transformation—through investment decisions, technology choices, and operational practices, they determine how effectively industries transition to a cyclical economy. Embracing circular principles can unlock new revenue streams, optimize plant operations, and expand access to emerging markets while advancing sustainable development and profitability.”

He expressed gratitude to ACCAPPOCCO Global Services for their collaboration, noting that their expertise has been essential in driving change across Nigeria’s industrial and agricultural sectors. He also commended the Minister of Environment for exemplary leadership in promoting environmental sustainability.

Capacity Building and Collaboration

Dr. Valentine Opone, Managing Director of ACCAPPOCCO Global Services, stressed the importance of building the capacity of professionals in the sector. He noted that the forum provided a platform for government enforcement agents and industry staff to address challenges and clarify regulatory grey areas.

Opone also highlighted the economic potential of circular economy principles, noting that turning waste into wealth is essential for industrial sustainability. He pledged continued collaboration between the private sector and government agencies like NESREA to advance circular economy initiatives.

Industry Concerns and Calls for Policy Support

However, some industry voices raised concerns about regulatory pressures. Emmanuel Afolayan, Executive Director, HSE/Industrial Relations, Drugfield Pharmaceuticals Limited, described multiple government charges on manufacturers as draconian, warning that without policy adjustments, struggling companies may be forced out of business. He also urged the public to adopt responsible waste disposal practices to support sustainability efforts.

Prof. John Oyedepo of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, advised NESREA to ensure that its enforcement activities not only ensure compliance but also promote measurement, monitoring, and management practices that improve efficiency across industries.