Informal Waste Pickers mark Workers’ Day, demand recognition, inclusion

Informal waste pickers have joined global celebrations of International Workers’ Day with a strong call for recognition, inclusion, and better working conditions.

In a press statement released on Friday, May 1, the Association of Scraps and Waste Pickers of Lagos State highlighted the essential role waste pickers play in maintaining environmental sustainability and supporting the circular economy. The group emphasized that thousands of workers across communities recover recyclable materials daily, helping to reduce pollution and ease pressure on landfills.

Despite these contributions, the association noted that waste pickers continue to face significant challenges, including social stigma, low and unstable incomes, and limited access to healthcare and safety protections.

“We stand in solidarity with workers across all sectors while drawing attention to our critical yet often overlooked role,” said Friday Oku, president of the association.

The group called on government authorities and private sector stakeholders to formally recognize waste picking as legitimate work. Among their demands are policies that integrate informal workers into official waste management systems, ensure fair compensation, and provide access to healthcare, financial support, and protective equipment.

According to the statement, recognizing waste pickers is not only a matter of social justice but also key to achieving environmental sustainability. “There can be no true sustainability without waste pickers,” the association said, stressing that their work keeps cities cleaner while supporting thousands of livelihoods.

The appeal adds to growing conversations around labor rights and inclusion in Nigeria’s informal sector, particularly as the country marks another Workers’ Day with renewed focus on equitable economic participation