The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has commended the Coca-Cola System in Nigeria, which includes Coca-Cola Nigeria Limited and its authorized bottler, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), for inaugurating a state-of-the-art Packaging Waste Collection Hub in Apapa, Lagos.
During the commissioning of the hub on Friday, January 31, 2025, the Director General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde, hailed the initiative as a transformative investment poised to reshape environmental sustainability. He noted that the hub would generate both direct and indirect employment by supporting over 1,000 waste collectors, more than 70 green entrepreneurs, and many others.
Capacity and Impact of the Collection Hub
Smatt-Oyerinde described the collection hub, which has the capacity to process 13,000 metric tonnes of plastic bottles annually, as a game-changer and a strong testament to the Coca-Cola System’s commitment to corporate responsibility.
“As the leading voice of business in Nigeria, NECA takes pride in this remarkable investment by the Coca-Cola System. This initiative proves that the Coca-Cola System is not solely focused on profit but is deeply committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability. With this project, it has set a new benchmark for environmental responsibility,” he stated.
Call for Government Support and Further Investments
He urged both state and federal governments to acknowledge and support the company for this commendable initiative, encouraging further efforts while inspiring other organizations to invest in similar projects that enhance the environment and generate economic opportunities.
He highlighted the establishment of the Packaging Collection Hub as a testament to the Coca-Cola System’s commitment to increasing investment in Nigeria, aligning with the company’s $1.5 billion investment pledge made to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a recent leadership visit to Abuja.
About NECA
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) was established in 1957 as a platform for the government to engage with private sector employers on socio-economic and labor policy matters. It serves as the umbrella organization for employers in Nigeria’s Organized Private Sector.
NECA facilitates dialogue between private sector employers, the government, labor groups, communities, and other stakeholders, both within and outside Nigeria, to foster a business-friendly environment that drives productivity and economic growth. While not a trade union, NECA is a highly regarded professional body registered under the Companies and Allied Matters Act of 1990.
