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The Kogi Government says it is determined to reduce indiscriminate waste disposal in the state by 50 per cent by the end of 2019.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Mrs Rosemary Osikoya, made the declaration on Tuesday in Idah at a stakeholders’ meeting and consultation on environmental issues.
She said that the government had set a target to reduce indiscriminate waste disposal by 15 per cent every year before achieving the ultimate goal of 50-per-cent reduction by the end of 2019.
“As you are aware, Gov. Yahaya Bello has the statutory responsibility to ensure the security and welfare of the people of Kogi State.
“Oftentimes, we believe security only applies to human life and property but security also has to do with safeguarding our health and wellbeing from the harmful effects of people’s action on the environment.
“As regards sanitation and waste management, Gov. Yahaya Bello has promised 15 per cent annual reduction rate in indiscriminate dumping of refuse and a 50-per-cent reduction by the end of 2019.
“The change we are talking about must start with us; it should start with how people approach the environment, take responsibility for it and how much they do to safeguard themselves,’’ she said.
Osikoya underscored the need for the citizens to comply with the extant environmental laws, saying that the laws ought to be enforced, while there should be consequences for violating the laws.
“For instance, we want our people to stop illegal sand mining across the state; we also want our people to develop the mentality of contributing to the state’s development.
“The government of Alhaji Yahaya Bello has been approaching issues of environment with topmost priority,’’ she said.
In his remark, the Attah of Igala, Dr Idakwo Ameh-Oboni II, commended the efforts of the state government to sensitise the citizens to vital environmental issues.
“We promise to give you our total support because you are doing a very good job; although the results might not show immediately but it would show in the nearest future,’’ he said.
Also, the Odomata of Igala, Dr Jacob Odiba, commended the state government for the initiative.
He urged the government to effectively implement the new waste management policy and put in place measures to ensure its sustenance.
Credits: Stephen Adeleye | NAN
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