10.30am: had a meeting with an investment banker interested in this project. He gave me lots of good advice and answered my one million questions on how best to start this whole thing, from a financial perspective. He's given quite a bit of research to read and put me in touch with a couple people in the industry. So so grateful :-D
Tuesday, June 28 - NGO + LAWMA
Driving from my parents house to my sisters', I decided to give a contact at an NGO (US based) a call to see when I could meet with him, and lucky lucky, he was free at that very moment. The NGO deals with climate/pollution issues in Nigeria and works very closely with the government to reduce pollution. I turned the car around and headed to his office-- turns out the office sits in the Lagos State Waste Management (LAWMA) building due to their partnership.
We wasted no time with pleasantries and got into interview mode very quickly. I learned that the foundation does quite a lot in supporting small and big businesses in combating pollution, they provide solutions and advice and can actually get the government involved in your project. We spent a good hour talking about all the opportunities Lagos state provides and to what extent they support green projects. Have to say, I was quite surprised at the level of assistance the government gives .. because the economy is so messed up, it's difficult to see the few good things that are happening.
In fact foundation had recently helped a business start a recycling plant (for plastics) in Lagos. Because it was such a large scale project and one that the govt is really happy to support, Lagos state gave the business free land to build the plant, built new roads for easy commute, made sure they had proper connections to state water supply and electricity. Basic stuff in other countries but a big deal over there. They also supported in many other areas - documentation, speedy approvals and such. That was really welcoming news .. I left there a changed woman! LOL.
I also got the chance to interview a lady who's in charge of green projects at LAWMA, and similarly, she gave every confidence that tackling climate issues is a big priority for the government. She was excited to know that more and more people are taking this route and is happy to give any support that is necessary when I'm ready.
Good day. I'm so glad I went.
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