The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a three-day training programme for 20 Nigerian innovators working to tackle plastic pollution, equipping them with business skills to expand their solutions, attract investment and create jobs.

The participants were selected under the Global Plastics Innovation Programme (GPIP), funded by the United Nations Peace and Development Trust Fund (UNPDF). The training is the first in a series of activities under the initiative and combines expert-led sessions, practical exercises, peer learning and networking.

Following the training, participants will receive continued support through technical advisory clinics designed to help them address business growth challenges and develop plans for scaling their ventures.

Across Nigeria, innovators are developing solutions to plastic pollution through reuse systems, alternative materials, waste collection, recycling technologies and digital tools. However, many early-stage businesses face difficulties securing finance, finding partners, accessing markets and expanding their operations.

The programme addresses these challenges through practical sessions covering business planning, investor readiness, financial management, market expansion, partnership development, and the measurement and communication of impact.

“Today’s innovators are not simply managing waste. They are redesigning how economies work,” said Mr Muyiwa Odele, Head, Environment Unit, UNDP in Nigeria.

“This training helps them move from promising ideas to enterprises that create jobs, protect the environment and strengthen the economy. Nigeria has the talent, creativity and entrepreneurial energy to lead this transition.”

Ms. Vivian Maduekwe, Project Lead, eCycle, said the initiative would help participating innovators strengthen their businesses and build partnerships to address environmental challenges.

“Innovation is not just about inventing something new. It is about solving problems at a scale that matters,” she remarked.

“This programme gives us the tools to strengthen our businesses and attract the right partners, so we can turn environmental challenges into opportunities that benefit communities, livelihoods and future generations.”

Ms. Ibukun Odusote, Executive Director, Digital Peers International, highlighted the importance of investing in youth-led innovation and supporting young entrepreneurs working on sustainability challenges.

“We have seen tremendous creativity and commitment among young Nigerians working to address plastic pollution and other sustainability challenges. This programme creates an important platform for young entrepreneurs to refine their solutions, expand their networks, and contribute to sustainable solutions for Nigeria’s future.”

The training forms part of UNDP’s broader efforts across Africa to promote locally led solutions that tackle plastic pollution, generate green jobs and support the transition to a circular economy.

Under the circular economy model, materials are kept in use rather than discarded, helping to reduce waste and encourage more sustainable resource management.

Source: UNDP