In a press conference held earlier today at the Kwara State Ministry of Environment, the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Nafisat Buge, outlined a comprehensive plan to address the persistent issue of indiscriminate refuse dumping across the state.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner Buge emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining a clean and hygienic environment for the health and well-being of its residents. She noted that the new strategies are part of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s broader vision for a cleaner and greener Kwara.
The Commissioner announced several key measures aimed at revitalizing waste management in the state. Among these, it is now illegal to dump refuse on road medians, roundabouts, gutters, drainage channels, and waterways. Offenders will face penalties as the government steps up enforcement efforts. Additionally, larger waste bins that were previously placed on roadsides and roundabouts will be relocated to secure areas to prevent obstruction of vehicular movement.
The Ministry has also introduced a new system to ensure that refuse is collected and transported to dump sites within 24 hours. This effort includes a ban on scavenging within the metropolis, with registered scavengers directed to operate only at the government-designated dump site at Sokoto-Aiyekale.
To further support these initiatives, 38 Commercial Waste Consultants have been engaged to manage refuse collection in various communities. Residents are expected to pay a monthly fee for waste collection services or make use of government mobile collection vans when they visit their communities. The Ministry will also provide medium-sized waste bins to shop owners and households to encourage proper disposal practices.
Commissioner Buge stressed the importance of public cooperation in the success of these initiatives, urging residents to adhere to the new regulations to avoid penalties. She also highlighted the crucial role of the media in educating the public about the dangers of indiscriminate refuse dumping and the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
The press conference also marked the inauguration of a Task Force, which will be responsible for enforcing the new strategies. Commissioner Buge assured that the implementation and enforcement of these measures would be strict, with continuous community engagement and media sensitization efforts to discourage unacceptable practices.
The Commissioner concluded by expressing gratitude for the public’s support and urged continued collaboration with the government to achieve a cleaner and healthier Kwara State that would attract investors and improve the quality of life for all residents.