Nigeria - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

Insecurity in northwestern Nigeria has displaced many, forcing them to begging on street. Our startup tackles this by recycling plastics and tires, promoting a cleaner environment and creating jobs for displaced individuals through raw material collection

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

Insecurity in northwestern Nigeria has led to the displacement of many individuals from their hometowns, driving them to seek refuge in major urban centers. Unfortunately, this displacement often results in these individuals resorting to begging and roaming the streets as they struggle to find sustainable means of livelihood. Our startup aims to tackle this issue by focusing on waste recycling, particularly plastics and tires. By converting these waste materials into reusable products, we strive to foster a cleaner and greener environment, addressing the critical problem of waste management in our communities. Our approach not only targets environmental sustainability but also social impact. We provide employment opportunities for displaced individuals, Almajiris and street beggers, integrating them into our operations by involving them in the collection and sorting of raw materials needed for our recycling plants.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

Our startup idea aimed to tackle problems such as: street begging, unemployment, and environmental degradation from plastic waste. Increase in street begging not only reflects insecurity and economic hardship but also exacerbates social issues and perpetuates cycles of poverty. Unemployment compounds these challenges, leaving many without stable incomes or opportunities for meaningful work. Meanwhile, the accumulation of plastic waste contributes to pollution, harming both the environment and public health. Our initiative aims to address these issues holistically. By providing employment opportunities through waste recycling initiatives, we empower individuals to earn sustainable livelihoods while simultaneously tackling the environmental impact of plastic waste. Through our efforts, we aim to create a more inclusive and prosperous society, where individuals have the means to support themselves and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment for all.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

With over 10 million waste tires in Nigeria posing significant environmental hazards, our recycling initiative aims to provide multiple solutions: 1. Rubber Pavement for Playgrounds, Fitness Centers, and Shoe Making: Repurposing tires into rubber pavement creates safe, durable surfaces for playgrounds, fitness centers, and even in shoe manufacturing. This not only reduces waste but also enhances safety and sustainability in various sectors, including the production of shoes, contributing to both environmental and economic benefits. 2. Tire-Derived Fuel (TDF) for Industries: By converting tires into tire-derived fuel (TDF), we offer an alternative energy source for industries like BUA Cement in Sokoto and other production plants in the northwest. Using TDF reduces reliance on traditional fuels, curbing emissions and promoting cleaner energy practices. 3. Rubber Powder: Our recycling process yields rubber powder, serving as a primary raw material for various industries,

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Our project is aimed at serving multiple stakeholders, including: Displaced Individuals: People displaced by insecurity in northwestern Nigeria are a primary focus. We aim to empower these individuals to earn sustainable livelihoods and rebuild their lives. Local Communities: Our project benefits local communities by addressing environmental issues caused by waste tires and plastics. By recycling these materials and creating cleaner environments, we contribute to the well-being and health of community members. Industries: Industries such as BUA Cement and other production plants in the northwest benefit from our tire-derived fuel (TDF) and rubber powder, offering them alternative resources while reducing their environmental footprint. Environmental Conservation Efforts: Our initiative contributes to broader environmental conservation efforts by reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices in waste management and energy production.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2024-01-01

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

1

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

0

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

I'm in the initial stages of this project and haven't yet partnered with others to bring it to fruition. I'm presently collaborating with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council of Nigeria to determine the estimated cost of the machinery required for this startup. Nafiu Habibu, a Sales Officer at Bua Cement Sokoto, holds a BSc in Economics, an MSc in Project Management, and another MSc in Big Data Analytics. His upbringing in northwestern Nigeria motivated him to address the increasing challenges of Almajiri and street begging. Leveraging waste tires from industry trucks like BUA Cement and plastic waste in the environment, he aims to repurpose these materials for environmental and social benefit. By establishing sustainable employment opportunities through waste management initiatives, Nafiu seeks to both mitigate environmental harm and uplift marginalized communities.

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

https://linktr.ee/nafiuhabibu

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

a) Energy (equipment, services, sustainable energy and fuel)

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

By providing sustainable employment opportunities for marginalized individuals, particularly those affected by insecurity and unemployment, such as Almajiri and street beggars and IDPs in northwestern Nigeria. Through initiatives focused on waste management and recycling, individuals are empowered to earn a stable income, breaking the cycle of poverty and dependency. By repurposing waste materials like tires and plastics into valuable resources, the project not only addresses environmental issues but also creates economic opportunities, ultimately lifting communities out of poverty and fostering inclusive growth

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

By creating sustainable employment opportunities that enable individuals to secure their livelihoods and access essential resources, including food. By repurposing waste materials like tires and plastics into valuable resources through recycling initiatives, the project fosters economic growth, thereby improving food security and reducing hunger People displaced by insecurity, Almajiris and Street Begging in North western part of Nigeria. Additionally, by addressing environmental challenges related to waste management, the project indirectly supports agricultural sustainability, contributing to long-term efforts to achieve zero hunger.

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

By repurposing waste materials like tires and plastics through recycling initiatives, the project helps reduce pollution and environmental hazards, thereby improving air and water quality. This, in turn, promotes healthier living conditions for communities. Additionally, by creating sustainable employment opportunities, the project enhances socio-economic well-being, empowering individuals to access healthcare services and lead healthier lives.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

4

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

By providing opportunities for skill development and education for marginalized individuals. Through initiatives focused on waste management and recycling, individuals gain hands-on experience and training in sustainable practices. This empowers them with valuable skills that can enhance their employability and socioeconomic prospects. Additionally, by raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices, the project fosters a culture of lifelong learning and environmental stewardship within communities in northwestern Nigeria, ultimately contributing to the achievement of quality education for all.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

5

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Our startup will give equal opportunity for both genders and also we plan to incorporate gender-sensitive policies and training programs to ensure that women have equal access to resources, opportunities, and decision-making roles, thereby fostering an environment of gender equality and empowerment.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

Our project aimed at addressing environmental pollution caused by waste tires and plastics. By repurposing these materials through recycling, the project helps to reduce the contamination of water sources and improve water quality in northwestern Nigeria. Cleaner environments lead to healthier water bodies, which are essential for providing safe drinking water and sanitation. Furthermore, by promoting sustainable waste management practices, the project supports the protection and restoration of ecosystems that are crucial for maintaining clean water supplies and effective sanitation systems.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

Among the products this startup is aimed at is producing tire-derived fuel (TDF) and bio-fuel from waste materials. TDF and bio-fuel provide alternative, more sustainable and affordable energy sources for industries and household use, reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels. By incorporating these clean energy initiatives, the project promotes the use of renewable and less polluting energy options, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. This transition to cleaner energy sources supports broader efforts to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

The primary aim of this initiative is to create sustainable employment opportunities in waste management and recycling for marginalized individuals, particularly people displaced by insecurity, Almajiris and street beggars. This project will help these particular set of people to gain valuable skills and secure stable incomes, enhancing their economic prospects. Additionally, by fostering a circular economy through the repurposing of waste materials like tires and plastics, the project stimulates local economic growth, encourages innovation, and supports sustainable business practices. These efforts contribute to broader economic development and the promotion of decent work for all.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

This startup contributes to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, by fostering sustainable industrial practices and promoting innovation in waste management and recycling. By repurposing waste tires and plastics, the project supports the development of green technologies and innovative recycling methods. This not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances industrial efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, by creating infrastructure for recycling and clean energy production, such as tire-derived fuel (TDF) and biofuel facilities, the project strengthens local economies and supports resilient infrastructure development, contributing to inclusive and sustainable industrialization.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

This startup contributes to SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, by providing employment opportunities and skill development to marginalized individuals, such as displaced individuals, Almajiris and street beggars. By integrating these individuals into the workforce through waste management and recycling initiatives, the project helps reduce economic disparities and promotes social inclusion. It ensures that vulnerable populations have access to stable incomes and opportunities for personal and professional growth. Additionally, the project's commitment to equitable employment practices fosters a more inclusive community, helping to bridge the gap between different socio-economic groups and reduce inequalities within the region.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

This startup contributes to SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, by improving urban environments through effective waste management and recycling initiatives. By repurposing waste tires and plastics, the project helps reduce pollution and enhance the cleanliness and livability of cities and communities in northwestern Nigeria. Creating green spaces, such as rubber-paved playgrounds and fitness centers, promotes healthier lifestyles and recreational opportunities. Additionally, by generating sustainable employment opportunities for marginalized individuals, the project fosters social cohesion and economic stability, making cities more inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

5

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

This startup contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education, by providing opportunities for skill development and education for marginalized individuals, particularly those affected by poverty and unemployment. Through initiatives focused on waste management and recycling, individuals gain hands-on experience and training in sustainable practices. This empowers them with valuable skills that can enhance their employability and socioeconomic prospects. Additionally, by raising awareness about environmental issues and promoting sustainable practices, the project fosters a culture of lifelong learning and environmental stewardship within communities in northwestern Nigeria, ultimately contributing to the achievement of quality education for all.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

This project contributes to SDG 13: Climate Action, by addressing environmental challenges associated with waste management and pollution. Through recycling initiatives focused on repurposing waste tires and plastics, the project reduces the carbon footprint and mitigates environmental degradation. By converting waste materials into valuable resources such as rubber pavement and fuel, the project promotes sustainable practices and reduces reliance on fossil fuels, thus contributing to efforts to combat climate change. Additionally, by creating employment opportunities in the green economy, the project facilitates the transition to a low-carbon and resilient future, aligning with the goals of SDG 13.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

This project contributes to SDG 14: Life Below Water, by addressing the issue of plastic waste pollution that negatively impacts marine ecosystems. By repurposing waste plastics through recycling initiatives, the project helps prevent plastic pollution from entering rivers and oceans, thereby protecting marine life and preserving underwater ecosystems. Additionally, by promoting sustainable waste management practices, the project contributes to the conservation of aquatic habitats and biodiversity. Through these efforts, the project aligns with the objectives of SDG 14 to sustainably manage and protect marine and coastal environments.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

This project contributes to SDG 15: Life on Land, by addressing environmental challenges related to land degradation and waste management. By repurposing waste tires and plastics through recycling initiatives, the project helps reduce land pollution and degradation, preserving terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. Additionally, by promoting sustainable land use practices and creating employment opportunities in the green economy, the project supports the conservation and restoration of land resources. Through these efforts, the project aligns with the objectives of SDG 15 to protect, restore, and sustainably manage terrestrial ecosystems.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

4

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

This project contributes to SDG 15: Life on Land, by addressing environmental challenges related to land degradation and waste management. By repurposing waste tires and plastics through recycling initiatives, the project helps reduce land pollution and degradation, preserving terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity. Additionally, by promoting sustainable land use practices and creating employment opportunities in the green economy, the project supports the conservation and restoration of land resources. Through these efforts, the project aligns with the objectives of SDG 15 to protect, restore, and sustainably manage terrestrial ecosystems.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

5

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals are enhanced by this project through collaboration with organizations such as the Raw Materials Research and Development Council of Nigeria. By seeking partnerships to determine the estimated costs of machinery required for the startup, the project demonstrates a commitment to leveraging expertise and resources for sustainable development. Additionally, by engaging with industry partners like Bua Cement Sokoto, the project fosters cooperation and knowledge sharing, leading to more effective waste management solutions. Through these partnerships, the project contributes to the achievement of SDG 17 by mobilizing resources, sharing knowledge, and fostering innovation for sustainable development.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

5

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

7 - Strongly Agree

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

1 - Strongly Disagree

05.08 Justification

Our products represent a groundbreaking innovation, yet to be explored by other companies. Our aim is to pioneer this initiative to generate employment opportunities and foster a cleaner environment. The array of products we intend to extract, including TDF, pavement materials, biofuel, and materials for shoe making, holds immense value. These are essential commodities meeting critical needs within society.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

The main challenge with these products lies in consumer habits and preferences. For example, while concrete pavement is the norm, rubber pavement offers distinct advantages, especially in playgrounds and training centers. Similarly, consumers are accustomed to their existing sources of energy and to make them switchd to TDF and biofuels requires extensive marketing

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

At the Digital Society Initiative, our NGO is deeply committed to empowering female entrepreneurs. We prioritize women’s participation in our training programs, focusing on digital skills to ensure they become self-reliant and can leverage technology as a powerful tool for economic empowerment. By providing women with the knowledge and resources they need, we aim to bridge the gender gap in the tech industry and foster inclusive growth and development.