CIRCO, a global initiative by the Kingdom of the Netherlands, has officially launched in Nigeria in partnership with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University. This collaboration aims to strengthen circular business practices across Nigeria, making it a leader in Africa’s growing circular economy movement.
The launch, held at EDC’s Lagos office in Ajah, marks the establishment of CIRCO Hub Nigeria, the first of its kind in Africa. According to Michel Deelen, Consul General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, the hub will serve as a catalyst for change, empowering entrepreneurs to redesign products, services, and business models with sustainability at their core. “CIRCO has successfully sparked circular business practices worldwide, and Nigeria is now poised to join this movement,” he said.
The hub is part of a strategic partnership between the Circular Business Platform (CBP) and EDC, combining the two organizations’ expertise in promoting sustainability and entrepreneurship. Natalie Beinisch, Executive Secretary of CBP, highlighted the importance of adopting circular business models, stating, “CIRCO Hub Nigeria will equip businesses with the tools and knowledge to design out waste, extend product life cycles, and regenerate natural systems.”
By adopting these practices, Nigerian businesses can better compete globally while contributing to sustainable development. Director of EDC, Nneka Okekearu, expressed her optimism for the partnership, emphasizing EDC’s 20-year experience in entrepreneurship development. “Together with CBP, we will make CIRCO Hub Nigeria a catalyst for change, helping businesses lead the shift towards more sustainable practices,” she noted.
The initiative opens new opportunities for Nigerian enterprises to integrate sustainability into their operations, ensuring long-term economic resilience and leadership in the circular economy.
