In a remarkable demonstration of community-led environmental action, more than 60,000 primary school students across Lagos have collected over 1 million used MILO plastic wrappers out of drainage systems and dumpsites, transforming them instead into functional school gear.
The exercise was part of the MILO Elevate Recycling Initiative, a school-based competition designed to mark World Environment Day 2026.
By turning waste collection into a rewarding challenge, the initiative taught children across 100 primary schools in the state the tangible value of a circular economy.
From Littered Waste to Learning Tools
Instead of ending up in landfills or contributing to the city’s persistent flooding issues, the recovered packaging was handed over to Rotaract District 9112.
According to the company, the Rotaract District 9112 led an upcycling project that mechanically processed and transformed the discarded wrappers into 1,013 custom student items, including durable school bags, lunch bags, and pencil cases.
The organisers said these upcycled goods were distributed back to the participating schools and awarded as prizes to the top-performing students who collected the most waste.
“The programme deepened my understanding of how improper waste disposal contributes to environmental pollution and flooding,” said Treasure John, a participating pupil who has since adopted more responsible waste habits at home.
Nurturing “Climate Champions”
For over two decades, the MILO brand has been a household staple for youth development in Nigeria, primarily through grassroots sports. This initiative marks a strategic expansion of that mission, shifting focus from physical fitness to environmental stewardship.
Speaking at the awards ceremony on World Environment Day, in Lagos, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, MILO, Nestlé Nigeria Plc, said the programme is designed to help children imbibe values and habits that would enable them to contribute positively to society and the environment.
“At MILO, we believe that nurturing children includes helping them build the values, habits and mindset needed to thrive and make a positive contribution to society,” Tweneboah-Koduah stated.
“Through the Elevate Recycling Initiative, we are encouraging children to understand that small everyday actions can create meaningful environmental impact. Just as we have inspired generations of future sports champions, we are proud to contribute to raising future climate champions.”
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A Blueprint for Community Impact
The initiative relied heavily on the structural network of the local education system to drive behavioral change. By integrating sustainability lessons directly into the classroom, the program ensured that practical exposure accompanied the physical cleanup.
Stephen Avoseh, Deputy Director of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), highlighted the long-term benefits of targeting younger demographics:
“Implementing this initiative through schools creates an opportunity for children to learn about environmental responsibility and share these lessons with their families and communities,” Avoseh noted. “Schools play an important role in building lasting awareness and positive environmental habits.”
The campaign aligns with Nestlé Nigeria’s broader packaging sustainability goals, proving that localized, incentive-driven recycling programs can successfully foster the mindsets needed to build a cleaner, greener future.
Victor Ezeja is a Nigerian journalist skilled in producing insightful news analyses, feature stories, and interviews that simplify complex issues and drive informed public discourse. His work combines rigorous research, balanced reporting, and compelling storytelling to highlight developments shaping industries and society. Victor, who holds a Master's Degree in Mass Communication, specializes in energy, aviation, business, and economic reporting. He can be reached via @VICTOREZEJA on X