By Mariam Adams in Lokoja.
Kogi State Government says it is unwaveringly committed to maintaining clean and sustainable environment,prioritizing the health and well-being of its citizens.
The Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun,stated this on Monday when he inspected designated dumpsite in lokoja metropolis.
The Commissioner, while emphasizing the importance of continuous efforts to protecting the state’s natural resources and promoting sustainable practices, said the “Keep Kogi Clean” initiative is a continuous exercise, aimed at ensuring that the state remains free from environmental hazards and promotes sustainable practices.
The Commissioner reaffirming the ministry’s resolve to continue delivering effective operations that maintains a clean and healthy environment.
Oluwasegun,who explained that the inspection was conducted to access the effectiveness of the cleaning exercise, identifying areas requiring improvement,expressed satisfaction with the substantial progress.
He urged residents to take precautions in disposing of waste properly and adhering to sanitation best practices.
Also speaking during the inspection exercise, The Director of Sanitation in the ministry,Pastor Falodun Vincent, commended the commissioner for engaging the State Sanitation and Waste Management Board’s utility vehicles, as well as hired additional tippers to ensure the environment is scrupulously clean.
This move,he said, is aimed at addressing the surge in waste generation, particularly during the seasonal harvesting of yam, groundnut and maize.
The director stressed the need by residents, for increased vigilance in maintaining cleanliness in the state and praised the Commissioner for his swift response towards waste evacuation stating that, by the action, the commissioner has demonstrated his commitment to the well being of the people and the environment.
The Reporters recalls that Renaissance Care and Empowerment Foundation (RECEF Nigeria) has expressed deeply concern about the deteriorating state of cleanliness and waste management in Kogi State, particularly in the capital, Lokoja, last week.
The foundation expressed its feeling in a statement signed by Amb. Idris Ozovehe Muraina, its Executive Director, in a statement,a copy of which was made available to online publication in Lokoja on last Friday.
RECEF Nigeria noted that despite efforts;such as the launch of “Operation Clean the City” earlier this year by Hon. Commissioner of Environment and Ecological Management, the situation had only worsened, putting the health and well-being of residents at risk.
Muraina said:“The streets from Lokongoma down to the New Market/Nataco axis are now overrun with unremoved waste, turning our once vibrant city into a breeding ground for diseases and environmental hazards.
“In fact, the dumpsite somewhere around Felele area of Lokoja close to the Federal University permanent site is wearing a new dangerous look.
“What was once envisioned as “Operation Clean the City” now seems to have transformed into “Operation Prepare for Cholera” as the filth continues to accumulate unchecked.
“We are calling on the Honorable Commissioner of Environment and Ecological Management, as well as the management of the Kogi State Waste Management Board, to urgently wake up to their responsibilities and take decisive action to address this pressing issue.
”The current state of affairs is unacceptable and poses a significant threat to public health and the environment.
“It is imperative that immediate steps are taken to clean up our streets, properly manage waste, and restore the cleanliness and beauty of our city.
“We urge the authorities responsible for waste management in the state to redouble their efforts, implement effective strategies, and engage with relevant stakeholders to tackle this challenge head-on.
“The time for action is now before the situation deteriorates further.
“RECEF Nigeria stands ready to support and collaborate with the government and relevant agencies in any way possible to ensure a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all residents of Kogi State.
“Let us all work together to restore the beauty and cleanliness of Kogi State for the well-being of its residents and the preservation of our environment.”
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
