Nigeria joins global e-waste awareness efforts as EPRON champions youth-driven sustainability
Nigeria marked International E-Waste Day 2025 with a call to action for responsible electronic waste management, led by the E-Waste Producer Responsibility Organization of Nigeria (EPRON).
To commemorate the global event, the organisation, in partnership with IHS Nigeria, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) (funded by the European Union), as well as LAWMA, LASEPA, and NESREA, launched a National Student Essay Competition.
The initiative sought to foster awareness about CRMs, encourage critical thinking about e-waste solutions, and empower students to become ambassadors of sustainability within their communities.
The competition, which drew 232 entries from across the country, focused on Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) and the circular economy. Students explored themes such as securing CRMs for off-grid renewable energy equipment and advancing a just transition through urban mining.
EPRON’s initiative highlights Nigeria’s growing awareness of e-waste management and sustainability. The organization’s executive secretary, Chidi Ajaere, emphasized the importance of youth engagement in driving environmental change.
The student essay competition featured thought-provoking topics. The Junior Secondary Students (JSS 1–3) topic was tagged ‘Securing Critical Raw Materials for Off-Grid Renewable Energy Equipment by Advancing Circular Economy.’
The Senior Secondary Students (SSS 1–3) topic was tagged ‘Advancing a Just Transition through Urban Mining to Secure Critical Raw Materials.
The themes encouraged participants to explore how urban mining and resource recovery could create jobs, support local industries, and reduce dependence on imported materials. EPRON noted that the high level of female participation reflected a growing awareness among Nigerian girls about environmental issues and technology, a shift that could significantly influence future green innovations.
Winners of the essay competition received laptops, tablets, and school support grants, recognizing their innovative ideas and commitment to sustainability.
Top contestants included Oluku Promise Daniel, Oluwanishola Lewis Adewunmi, Obilezo Sonia, and Odunjo Temilade.
The International E-Waste Day campaign, launched by the WEEE Forum in 2018, reached 47 countries in 2024. This year’s focus on CRMs underscores the urgent need for responsible e-waste recycling and resource recovery.
