The Edo State Government has entered into a partnership with EP20 Nigeria Ltd for the setup of a 3-in-1 recycling plant, as part of efforts by the government to ensure proper waste management in the state.

The Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Engr Jonathan Lawani, who signed the deal on behalf of the Secretary to the Edo State Government, said the plant, when fully in operation, will recycle plastics and other waste materials, and also handle the incineration of hospital wastes.

He said, “It is a huge facility that is estimated to cost about N2.83bn and that is a lot of investment. Although this facility is referred to as a 3-in-1 recycling plant, the benefits are more than three. It is going to help us clean up the state and reuse some of those things we think are no longer usable.

“It's going to help us create jobs, from minor to professional jobs because people with high experience will be employed and engaged to operate this facility. There will be jobs for even scavengers. Also, during the construction, people will also be engaged.”

The Commissioner continued: “This is in line with the MEGA vision and Governor Godwin Obaseki is keen and committed to it. It aims to transform the lives of every citizen of this state by creating an enabling environment for private investors to thrive.

“This MOU has a specific timeline to deliver the project and after this signing, we will make sure the people immediately begin their job. We are going to monitor and follow it up to make sure this project is delivered as planned and commissioned as scheduled.”

On his part, the General Manager, Edo State Waste Management Board, Imariagbe Osadebamen Charles, said, “It is going to take care of hospital waste incineration, treat sewage and also recycle plastics which are some of the nagging challenges we have as far as the waste management sector is concerned.”

He added, “These are some other smaller ancillary activities they will be looking into like electronics. They will be interested in disused batteries as well as spent oil and some other related materials.

Also, the Chief Executive Director, EP20 Nig Ltd, Prince Osariemen Obaseki, hailed the governor for guaranteeing a friendly environment and right policies to attract investors into the state.

“With the government implementing the reforms to guarantee the inflow of private investors into the state, we had to look at specific areas to complement the efforts in collaboration with the waste management board. This is going to be a modern waste facility that will curb the menace of improper disposal of wastes. We also found a good business opportunity in the treatment of sewage and hospital waste incineration.”