Vanessa 
Lagos, June 5, 2025 – Plastic waste continues to threaten Nigeria’s coastlines, communities, and ecosystems. In response, Sterling One Foundation is stepping up efforts to combat the crisis through cleanups, partnerships, and grassroots advocacy.
Over 9,000 Kilograms of Waste Cleared from Beaches
Through its Beach Adoption Programme, the Foundation recently led a major cleanup at Elegushi Beach. Since 2021, it has adopted six beaches, Alpha, Eleko, Lafiaji, Iwerekun, Okun Ajah, and Elegushi.
Volunteers and community leaders have removed over 9,000 kilograms of waste so far. This includes more than 4,800 kilograms of recyclables. The Foundation also trains local residents to lead future cleanups and build a culture of environmental care.
“Our work on the beaches is not symbolic,” said Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation. “Each cleanup restores the environment and builds trust within coastal communities.”
Foundation to Spotlight Youth Innovation at WEDex 2025
On June 13, Sterling One Foundation will join other stakeholders at WEDex 2025, hosted by GreenHub Africa in partnership with the United Nations. The Foundation will speak during a session on Financing Youth Initiatives for Green Entrepreneurship at the UN House in Abuja.
In July, the Foundation will also co-convene the Africa Social Impact Summit in Lagos. The summit, scheduled for July 10 and 11, will focus on solutions for climate resilience and bold policy reforms.
“Plastic pollution isn’t just a threat, it’s an untapped opportunity,” Ibekwe said. “We must act fast and see beyond the problem. If we invest wisely, we can turn plastic waste into jobs and innovation, especially for young people.”
To learn more about Sterling One Foundation’s work, visit onefoundation.ng or register for the upcoming summit at theimpactsummit.org.
About Sterling One Foundation
Sterling One Foundation is a non-profit committed to tackling poverty through programmes in health, education, climate action, and food security. Gender equality and women’s empowerment are priorities across all its initiatives.
