Informal waste pickers have called for greater recognition and inclusion in Nigeria’s waste management system as they joined workers worldwide to mark International Workers’ Day. 

Friday Oku, president of the Association of Scrap and Wastepickers of Lagos, made the call in a statement in Lagos on Friday.

Mr Oku said thousands of waste pickers contribute daily to environmental sustainability by recovering recyclable materials, reducing pollution, and supporting the circular economy.

He, however, decried harsh working conditions, including stigma, poor income, lack of social protection, and limited access to healthcare and safety support.

He urged government authorities, private-sector stakeholders, and the public to recognise waste picking as legitimate work and to implement inclusive policies that integrate waste pickers into formal waste management systems.

Mr Oku also called for fair compensation, access to healthcare, provision of safety equipment, and financial support.

According to him, sustainable urban development cannot be achieved without acknowledging the role of waste pickers in keeping cities clean and reducing pressure on landfills.

He emphasised the need for their voices to be heard, their dignity respected, and their contributions fully valued. 

(NAN)