In a bid to enhance public awareness about the significance of the “Operation Clean Edo” Campaign, the Edo State Waste Management Board (ESWMB) and the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability initiated a robust road show on September 6, 2022.
The campaign aims to educate residents on the adoption of proper waste management practices in collaboration with certified private waste managers.
Led by Mr. Gregory Osarenren, Head of Advocacy Unit of the Board, the road show commenced at the Museum Ground, Kings Square, Benin City. The team engaged with residents at markets, motor parks, and on the streets to highlight the hazards of indiscriminate waste disposal.
With a surge in reports of indiscriminate dumping at various sites in the state, particularly in markets and drainage facilities, the sensitization drive was deemed crucial to address the pressing issue.
During the event, Mr. Osarenren emphasized the government’s waste management policies and the role of registered waste managers in transporting waste to government-approved dumpsites. He cautioned against patronizing non-certified cart pushers and assured residents of strict enforcement measures to deter unlawful waste disposal practices.
To bolster compliance, task forces have been deployed to key locations to apprehend offenders and uphold environmental sanitation regulations. Violators face penalties ranging from imprisonment to hefty fines, underscoring the gravity of flouting waste management directives.
Residents were encouraged to report concerns about waste management services, seek resolution through designated channels, and engage with zonal waste managers for quality service delivery.
The public was urged to embrace responsible waste disposal methods prescribed by the government for a cleaner and healthier environment.
The road show witnessed the participation of various stakeholders, including the Advocacy Team, Enforcement Team, Health Officers, EDSTMA, Police officers, underscoring a collaborative effort toward realizing a cleaner Edo State.
