Nigeria’s 10m used tyres annually pose danger to environment – ACCI

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has said that 10 million used tyres in Nigeria every year pose a danger to the environment.

Speaking during a roundtable discussion on ‘waste to wealth’ held in Abuja recently, the President of the Chamber, Prince Adetokumbo Kayode, said despite the wealth creation potential of turning waste into meaningful economic products, about 2.5 million tons of tyre wastes are produced annually in Nigeria.

The industrialist said recycling is the solution to the waste challenge in Nigeria to protect the environment and create wealth as well.

Prince Kayode said Nigeria can create one-waste-one-industry across the country to engage young Nigerians who are unemployed.

He said such industries do not require much money to set up and are within the range of investment that most Nigerians can afford.

“It will create value, open opportunities and create wealth for the younger generation,” Prince Kayode told the gathering.

He said “no waste is waste” no matter the state and extent of use, whether it is plastic, used tires, broken glass, wood shavings, and used papers.”

The European Union (EU) Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Mr Filipo Amato, told participants at the roundtable that the union places priority on environmental protection.

He said recycling of used products help to reduce waste in the society, leaving the environment clean.

He pledged to work with the chamber next year to create more awareness on the potentials of waste in wealth creation.