Oredola Adeola
The Lagos State Government has commissioned and handed over the Ikosi Fruit Market Biodigester Plant, dedicated to converting tons of organic waste, including fruit peels, vegetable trimmings, and unsold produce, into biogas for cooking and electricity.
Tokunbo Wahab, Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources disclosed this in a statement obtained by Advisors Reports on Monday following the official handing over ceremony.
According to him, the Ikosi Fruit Market Biodigester Plant, was delivered in partnership with C40 Cities and with support from UK International Development under the Climate Action Implementation programme.
He further explained that the daily, Ikosi Fruit Market generates tons of organic waste, fruit peels, vegetable trimmings, unsold produce.
“In the past, much of this ended up in dumpsites and road medians, clogging drains, creating health risks, and releasing methane into the atmosphere.
“Today, that same waste will be fed into an anaerobic digester where it will be converted into biogas for cooking and electricity, as well as nutrient-rich biofertilizer for farmers,” Wahab said.
The Commissioner further emphasised that the initiative is the circular economy in action.
“I have always said that climate action must move beyond conferences and policy documents. It must be practical and visible in our communities.
“This plant reflects our bigger ambition for Lagos, which is to build a city that is resilient, resource-efficient, and forward-looking,” he said.
Tokunbo noted that the clean markets mean healthier communities, reduced disease transmission, and a more dignified environment for traders and residents alike.
Advisors Reports gathered that the initiative aligns with Lagos State’s drive toward sustainable agriculture and renewable energy adoption in West Africa, supporting SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
The project represents another initiative by the state government to transform Lagos’ long-standing waste management challenges into sustainable energy opportunities.
GAJI Omobolaji, Permanent Secretary, Environmental Services said the project represents the power of innovation, collaboration and technology adding that for a long-time trader have grappled with the challenge of waste management.
He explained that the Ikosi Fruit Market Biogas Plant provides an ingenious solution that is transforming what is once considered “waste” into valuable resources.
Mr Anthony Okoth, C40 Cities Regional Director, Africa expressed appreciation and gratitude for the completion adding that C40 Cities collaborates with other 14 countries around Africa stating that Lagos is the biggest of these cities and their collaboration is working to address sanitation waste matter and climate change issues.
