The Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA has organized an inspiring five-day Water Hyacinth Recycling Training Program, empowering 50 women and young people in Eredo Local Council Development Area, LCDA, Epe, Lagos State.
This initiative, according to a statement in Lagos on Friday by the Public Affairs Unit, LASWA, which was in partnership with Mitimeth, took place from January 19 to 23, 2026.
Designed to spark creativity and environmental responsibility, the training provided hands-on skills to transform invasive water hyacinth into innovative and marketable products, tackling pollution while opening new economic avenues.
Commenting on the event, Mr. Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, Special Adviser to the Governor on Blue Economy, emphasized LASWA’s commitment to pioneering solutions that boost waterway safety, safeguard ecosystems, and uplift local communities.
“Turning a troublesome plant into a source of income aligns perfectly with Lagos’ vision for sustainability, job creation, and inclusive growth”, Emmanuel said.
On his part, Hon. Monsuru Akinloye, the Executive Chairman of Eredo LCDA, praised LASWA for bringing this impactful program to the community, recognizing its potential to reduce water hyacinth problems while empowering women and youth with valuable skills.
Mitimeth, the social enterprise leading the training, provided lively demonstrations and personalized mentorship, ensuring participants could immediately apply their new skills. The trainees displayed beautifully crafted recycled products and shared exciting plans to form cooperatives and micro-enterprises, paving the way for lasting economic empowerment.
Having already trained over 450 women and young people across Lagos’s riverine areas, LASWA aims to expand similar initiatives statewide, fostering sustainable livelihoods and stronger environmental stewardship.
