Special sanitation exercise conducted as part of the celebrations marking the 32nd anniversary of Abia State’s creation has been hailed as a resounding success.
Some members of the Abia State Executive Council who spoke with Newsmen after monitoring this month’s clean-up exercise called on residents to embrace cleanliness as an integral aspect of their daily lives.
Addressing Newsmen after monitoring the exercise alongside other members of the Executive Council and government appointees, the Commissioner for Environment and Urban Renewal, Mr. Philemon Ogbonnia, expressed satisfaction with the turnout of Abia residents for the monthly environmental cleanup exercise for August.
He expressed delight that Abians are beginning to recognize the significance of cleanliness and announced plans for enhanced public awareness campaigns to encourage participation in future cleanup efforts.
The Commissioner noted that the upcoming launch of the Abia State Orientation Agency would play a crucial role in educating Abians and instilling a culture of values and good conduct in the state.
He emphasized that a sanitation court has been set up to prosecute defaulters and warned that those found in violation would face legal action.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Due Process, Dr Oluebube Chukwu also lauded the evident improvements compared to the July cleanup exercise.
Chukwu who appreciated Governor Alex Otti for his unwavering commitment to effective governance in Abia State, called on both Abians and residents to actively support the administration by participating in cleanup initiatives adding that that every effort of the present government is geared towards achieving a better Abia.
The Governor’s aide noted that the bid process towards contracting waste management to six different firms has been concluded while letters will soon be issued to winners with service benchmarks spelt out.
He emphasized that private management of waste is intended to create jobs, improve a cleaner and healthier environment as well as generate revenue for the state.
Contributing, the General Manager of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Mr. Ogbonnia Okereke, while noting that the involvement of EXCO members and other government appointees in the exercise serves as motivation for the public to participate, stressed the importance of regular cleanups, highlighting that cleanliness is akin to godliness.
