Kwara warns against waste dumping to mitigate flooding risks
As part of efforts to prevent flooding and disease outbreaks as the rainy season approaches, the Kwara State Government, through the Ministry of Environment has again cautioned residents against serious consequences of indiscriminate waste dumping in waterways, drainage channels, and road medians.
Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, made the announcement during an inspection of designated refuse collection points featuring “Roro-bins” for proper waste disposal.
She stressed the importance of community involvement in maintaining a clean and healthy environment, indicating that Kwara state has been recognized for its cleanliness and urging residents to work collaboratively to preserve this commendable status.
Buge praised the use of “Roro-bin” stations as a more effective method for waste disposal compared to the previous practice of leaving refuse on road medians. She directed waste management teams to increase their efforts to ensure timely collection and transportation of waste to the approved dump site in Sokoto-Aiyekale.
The Commissioner also highlighted the necessity for strict enforcement of waste management laws, instructing Environmental Health Officers and the Environmental Taskforce to take decisive action against violators. She emphasized that clear waterways and drainage systems are vital to prevent flooding, particularly with the rainy season approaching.
During her visit to the Oja-Oba market area, Buge expressed disapproval of road encroachments by traders and urged them to relocate their goods to their designated shops to avoid obstructing new road constructions, warning that the current administration under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq will not tolerate such encroachments.
Buge called for collective efforts to promote a cleaner, safer, and more aesthetically pleasing environment that contributes to public health in the state. Her inspection tour included various locations across the metropolis, such as Taiwo Road, Gerin Alimi, and several neighborhoods in Ilorin, where her team assessed compliance with waste management practices and the impact of waste on local waterways.
Accompanying the Commissioner were key officials, including Hon. Muhammad Muazu, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Environmental Protection, Permanent Secretary Dr. Abubakar Ayinla, and members of the Environmental Taskforce.
