Sustainable waste management begins with strong policies backed by collective action. Recognising the need for a waste management system that reflects local realities and provides a practical framework for implementation, the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) led the development of the Nasarawa State Waste Management Policy for the Nasarawa State Government.
As part of this collaborative process, a Policy Validation Workshop was held on 13 May 2026 in Lafia, the state capital. The event brought together government officials, waste management practitioners, civil society organisations, development partners, academia, the private sector, and the media to review, validate, and strengthen the draft policy before its adoption.
The policy development process was supported by the UNDP GEF Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP) through GIFSEP’s Waste to Wealth Project, an initiative aimed at improving environmental health, promoting sustainable waste management practices, and advancing a circular economy around biowaste in Nasarawa State.
Opening the workshop, Dr. Michael David, Executive Director of GIFSEP, underscored the importance of investing in sustainable waste management systems. He emphasised that effective waste management extends beyond sanitation, serving as a catalyst for improved public health, environmental protection, economic growth, job creation, and the overall well-being of communities.
Representatives from the Nasarawa State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Health, Nasarawa State Waste Management and Sanitation Authority, and the Nasarawa State Disability Commission reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening environmental governance and improving sanitation across the state. Their participation reflected the shared understanding that effective waste management requires coordinated action across sectors and institutions.
Delivering her remarks, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibironke Olubamise, National Coordinator of the UNDP GEF-SGP Nigeria, highlighted the importance of inclusive, innovative, and forward-looking waste management systems capable of addressing current and emerging environmental challenges. She reminded participants that environmental stewardship is a collective responsibility, leaving the audience with a powerful message: “Our environment does not forget.”
A key highlight of the workshop was the technical review of the draft policy, facilitated by Dr. Tosin Asonibare. Participants carefully examined each section of the document, providing technical recommendations, practical insights, and constructive feedback that will strengthen the final policy and ensure it is responsive to the realities of waste management in Nasarawa State.
The validation workshop marks a significant milestone in the state’s journey towards a more sustainable and resilient future. Once adopted by the Nasarawa State Government, the policy is expected to provide a comprehensive framework for improving waste collection and management, encouraging waste reduction, strengthening institutional coordination, protecting public health, and promoting investments in circular economy initiatives.
For GIFSEP, this achievement reflects our continued commitment to working with governments, communities, and development partners to develop practical, evidence-based solutions that address environmental challenges while creating sustainable livelihood opportunities. We are confident that this collaborative effort will lay the foundation for a cleaner, healthier, and more environmentally resilient Nasarawa State for present and future generations.
