A civil society organization, Renaissance Care and Empowerment Foundation (RECEF Nigeria) has expressed worry over the deteriorating state of cleanliness and waste management in Kogi State, particularly in the capital city of Lokoja.
In a statement issued by Amb. Idris Ozovehe Muraina, Executive Director, Renaissance Care and Empowerment Foundation (RECEF Nigeria), in Lokoja on Friday, the civil society organization called for improved waste management in the state.
RECEF called on the State Commissioner of Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Oluwasegun Joseph, 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 statement noted that 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.
“Despite efforts such as the launch of ‘Operation Clean the City’ earlier this year by the Hon. Commissioner of Environment and Ecological Management, the situation has only worsened, putting the health and well-being of residents at risk.
“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,” he said.
RECEF urged 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.
RECEF Nigeria said it is 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.
