NGO Pushes Biowaste For Climate-smart Agriculture In Nasarawa

Lydia Beshel
Sep, Thu, 2025

Environment

NGO pushes biowaste for climate-smart agriculture in Nasarawa

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Waste

By Abigael Joshua
The Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP) has unveiled plans to harness biowaste for climate-smart agriculture and greener communities in Nasarawa State.

Dr Michael David, Executive Director of GIFSEP, made this known at a Waste-to-Wealth awareness workshop in Karu Local Government Area.

It was tagged “Unlocking the Hidden Value of Biowaste to Power Climate-Smart Agriculture and Greener, Stronger Communities”.

Supported by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP) in Nigeria, the initiative aims to promote sustainable waste management, enhance food security, and create green jobs.

David said biowaste represents a practical pathway to climate-smart agriculture, improved community resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.

“If managed properly, biowaste can be transformed into compost, biogas, biochar and organic fertilisers.

“These products not only improve soil fertility, reduce dependence on chemical inputs, and cut down greenhouse gas emissions, but also create opportunities for small enterprises and green jobs,” he said.

He noted that while global conversations often focus on plastics and other waste streams, biowaste from kitchens, farms and livestock remained a largely untapped resource.

David explained that the training would empower selected women and youths to convert waste into useful products, including bio-fertilisers, biogas, and coconut-shell byproducts.

“I encourage participants to see biowaste not as a burden but as a blessing, an untapped resource that can drive sustainable development.

“Together, let us commit to protecting our environment, enhancing livelihoods and leaving a healthier planet for generations yet unborn,” he said.

Officials of Karu LGA and Nasarawa state expressed support for the initiative.

Mr Ibrahim Wali, Director of Works, Land and Survey, Karu LGA, said waste-to-wealth was a timely idea for improving public health and boosting the local economy.

“In Karu, where most of the population of Nasarawa State resides, huge sums are spent on waste management to keep the environment clean.

“With this initiative, waste can be converted into cooking gas, bioplastics and other products that strengthen the economy,” Wali said.

Also, Mr Ishaq Ibrahim, Director of the Nasarawa Waste Management and Sanitation Authority, said about 75 per cent of waste generated in the state was organic.

“Currently, these wastes end up in disposal sites in Ado and Tudun Wada. With the right technical expertise, they can be easily converted into organic fertiliser,” he said.

Representatives of the private sector and community also pledged support.

Mr Alfa Aliu, representing traders at the Maraba Orange Market, called for a government-supported waste collection centre to aid proper disposal and recycling.

Mr Victory Obehi, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member representing Karu LGA, commended the training, saying the knowledge gained on biowaste was an eye-opener for youth empowerment.

The workshop is part of GIFSEP’s broader effort to promote climate action, food security, and sustainable development in Nigerian communities. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

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