The National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN) and other key stakeholders have taken substantial steps toward establishing a more organised and reputable scrap industry by implementing a national registration and documentation process for members. This initiative aims to address increasing incidents of vandalism and illegal activities tied to unregistered scrap dealers, sometimes called “iron condemn” scavengers, which have cast a shadow on the industry’s image. The announcement came at NASWDEN’s Extraordinary Special Delegates Conference held recently in Abuja, themed “Operation Say No to Vandals and Double Taxation on Our Highway.”
John Obeh, the organisation’s President, expressed concern about the widespread criminal activities associated with certain individuals posing as scrap dealers, who have allegedly vandalised public and private infrastructure. Obeh emphasised the urgent need for registration and documentation, explaining that NASWDEN’s initiative would involve creating a nationwide database of scrap dealers, complete with biometric details for accurate identification. This database, Obeh said, would enhance registered dealers’ credibility and distinguish them from individuals who exploit the profession for unlawful purposes.
A dedicated task force will be deployed to monitor scrap-bearing vehicles.
To further support this objective, NASWDEN plans to deploy a dedicated task force to monitor scrap-bearing vehicles at strategic checkpoints nationwide. These checkpoints will screen trucks for restricted materials often targeted by vandals, such as railway tracks, manholes, and energy Infrastructure components. He warned that vehicles found carrying these restricted items would be handed over to Security agencies. He further voiced concerns over the proliferation of illegal ticketing agents who impose excessive fees on trucks transporting scrap materials across Nigerian highways. He argued that these agents inflate operational costs for dealers, undermining the government’s ease of doing business policy.
Calling for intervention, Obeh appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to address these illegal practices and support their mission. He also sought collaboration with the Ministry of Steel Development and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, emphasising that cooperation would ensure a stable supply of waste materials vital for manufacturing. The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development acknowledged NASWDEN’s efforts through Permanent Secretary Dr. Chris Isokpunwu, represented by the Director of Metallurgical Inspectorate and Environmental Protection, Mr. Frederick Ewa. Ewa commended NASWDEN’s proactive steps, noting that the association’s focus on curbing illegal practices and vandalism aligns with the ministry’s objectives for a safe, regulated waste industry.
Nigerian Police Force pledged full support for the initiative.
Ewa encouraged all stakeholders to support this initiative, emphasising the shared benefits of a safe, well-regulated environment for the steel and waste sectors and the protection of vital national infrastructure. Additionally, Inspector-General of Police Egbetokun, represented by Assistant Commissioner of Police Sule Abel, assured NASWDEN of the police’s full support. Egbetokun noted that crimes against infrastructure severely impact communities and committed to assisting NASWDEN in their efforts to address these challenges. Deputy Commandant Adebayo Bello of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) voiced this support, urging coordination among key stakeholders to combat vandalism more effectively.
Furthermore, NASWDEN’s founding members reinforced the importance of this initiative, explaining that the registration drive seeks a clear line between legitimate professionals and those using the industry as a cover for criminal activities. The association’s National Chairman, Alhaji Lateef Sulaimon, stressed that unregistered individuals misrepresent the industry, often leading to negative perceptions and assumptions about its dealers. Sulaimon emphasised the data-capturing process as essential in ensuring a positive public perception and building trust within the industry. Comrade Stephen Isobomuwa Obayuwana, NASWDEN’s General Secretary, appealed to waste stakeholders nationwide to participate in the registration and operate within legal boundaries.
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Alhaji Ibrahim Soja, a member of NASWDEN’s Board of Trustees, added that a clear distinction must be made between honest dealers and those who resort to illegal practices. Soja cautioned individuals who exploit the industry for criminal purposes to desist, as NASWDEN’s new task force will leave no hiding place for those outside the law. They called on the public to report any suspicious activities involving illegal material to the association or security personnel. It is essential to have a strong alliance with law enforcement, especially with the NSCDC, to root out criminal elements from the industry. They appealed to the Federal Government for logistical and operational support, particularly in cleaning up the Federal Capital Territory.