Rite Foods Limited, a leading indigenous manufacturer in the Food & Beverage sector, has partnered with Sterling One Foundation to conduct a beach clean-up at Alpha Beach in Lekki, Lagos. The event, part of the Sterling Environmental Makeover (STEM) program, marked the culmination of the National Sustainability Week organized by Sterling One Foundation.
The beach clean-up saw participation from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment, local community residents, and volunteers, all of whom worked tirelessly to clear plastic waste and other pollutants from the shoreline. The initiative aimed not only to preserve the beach environment but also to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable living and responsible waste management.
Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, expressed her gratitude for the partnership with Rite Foods, highlighting the collaborative efforts in improving the environment. “The Sterling One Foundation has been dedicated to environmental clean-ups since 2008. We are deeply encouraged by Rite Foods Limited’s support and swift involvement in this initiative. We also thank the Baale, Chief Yusuf Elegushi Atewolara, and his community for their warm reception. Together, we are making a significant impact, and this is just the beginning,” she said.
Ibekwe went on to emphasize that the clean-up was part of the Foundation’s commitment to sustainable development through its Beach Adoption Programme, launched in 2021. “This program has empowered local women and youth by providing training in waste collection, recycling, and converting plastic waste into valuable resources that support the local economy,” she added. Ibekwe also shared that similar clean-up events are ongoing across Nigeria, in cities like Abuja, Katsina, Asaba, Minna, Enugu, and Port-Harcourt, with dedicated coordinators overseeing volunteers and logistics to ensure smooth execution.
Dennis Aideloje, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Manager at Rite Foods Limited, spoke about the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability. “Rite Foods Limited is dedicated to encouraging communities to take an active role in waste management. As a responsible organization in the manufacturing sector, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean environment. Our collaboration with Sterling One Foundation is a step towards not only promoting environmental sustainability but also creating job opportunities and supporting local communities,” Aideloje said.
He added, “Through innovative waste management systems and partnerships, we are creating a cleaner environment, preserving aquatic life, and contributing to sustainability. We are also focused on supporting local education, including providing school supplies for children living along the Lagos shorelines.”
Mr. Adeoye Babajide, representing the Lagos State Ministry of Environment & Water Resources, commended the efforts of both Rite Foods and Sterling One Foundation. “We are grateful to private organizations like Sterling One Foundation and Rite Foods Limited for their commitment to environmental sustainability. The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, is pleased to partner with organizations that take active responsibility for the environment,” Babajide said.
