THE Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced plans to issue an executive order to legally support the prosecution of individuals caught engaging in indiscriminate waste disposal.
The Governor made this announcement during the official launch of newly acquired equipment for the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) in Itu Local Government Area.
Akwa Ibom State is widely recognized for its cleanliness, evident in the pristine condition of the state capital and other parts of the state.
To sustain this reputation, Governor Eno has unveiled waste management equipment designed to enhance timely and efficient waste disposal.
Speaking at the event, Governor Eno condemned the practice of improper waste disposal observed in some areas, emphasizing that Akwa Ibom residents are known for their commitment to cleanliness, a standard that must be upheld.
He called for collective efforts to maintain the state’s cleanliness and urged local government councils to collaborate with the Waste Management Agency in fulfilling their responsibilities.
To encourage participation, he announced plans to reward the cleanest local government area by May 29, 2025.
The Governor also used the occasion to address other state matters, assuring citizens of uninterrupted progress on various project sites and encouraging youths to take advantage of job opportunities available during and after the festive season.
Earlier, the Chairman of AKSEPWMA, Prince Ikim, lauded the Governor’s vision for a cleaner Akwa Ibom, pledging his commitment to actualizing this goal.
Similarly, Ene Baba-Owo, the National Coordinator of Clean Up Nigeria Limited, praised the Governor’s dedication to environmental cleanliness and urged the agency to remain steadfast in driving this vision forward.
The newly acquired waste management equipment includes five waste compacting trucks, four waste swing arm trucks, one pull-up waste truck with a crane mechanism, 50 dumpsters with a 6,000-litre capacity, and six dumpsters with a 12,000-litre capacity.