Ecocykle Launches Bottle Toilet Project to Improve Sanitation in Suleja, Niger State

Ecocykle Development Foundation has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovative, community-driven environmental solutions with the successful launch of the Bottle Toilet Project in Suleja, Niger State. Implemented in partnership with the International Climate Change Development Initiative Africa (ICCDI) and with the support of the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI), the project provides eco-friendly sanitation facilities for male and female students at UBE Shangayya, Angwar Gwari.

The project, which ran from July to December 2025, involved the construction of two toilet units, one for males and one for females, using an innovative design built from 7,000 upcycled PET plastic bottles. The transformation of Plastic waste into ecofriendly sanitation toilets demonstrates clearly that this initiative not only improves hygiene and dignity for students but also promotes circular economy practices and environmental sustainability within the school and the wider Suleja community.

The official commissioning and handover ceremony took place on 12th December 2025, marking the completion of the project. The event was attended by key community stakeholders, including Alhaja Khadijat Adeyemi, a respected women leader; Mallam Usman Ibrahim representing the community head; Hajiya Aisha, the Head Mistress of Universal Basic Education Shangayya; and Mr Abdul, representing the Executive Secretary of the Education Board.

During the ceremony, Miss Laureta Boniface, Executive Director of Ecocykle Development Foundation, delivered a welcome address and provided an overview of the project, highlighting its objectives and the importance of community ownership for sustainability. This was followed by goodwill remarks from the representative of the Education Board, who commended the initiative for addressing sanitation challenges while integrating environmental responsibility. Guests were taken on a guided tour of the newly constructed facilities, after which the toilets were formally handed over to the school authorities. Sensitization sessions were also conducted to educate staff and students on proper usage and maintenance to ensure the longevity of the facilities, and the event concluded with photographs and community interactions.

The Bottle Toilet Project has significantly improved sanitation standards at UBE Shangayya, reducing the risk of open defecation and promoting a healthier learning environment for students. Beyond its immediate impact, the project stands as a practical example of how environmental challenges such as plastic waste can be turned into opportunities for sustainable development through innovation and collaboration.

Ecocykle Development Foundation expresses deep appreciation to ICCDI and the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) for their invaluable support and shared commitment to community development and sustainable sanitation solutions. The school and community have been encouraged to take collective responsibility for maintaining the facilities so that they continue to serve current and future generations.

The project reinforces Ecocykle’s vision of integrating environmental sustainability, social impact, and community empowerment, one innovative solution at a time.

Written by Sarah Tizhe