By Faridat Salifu
The Kwara State Government is taking steps to regulate the activities of scavengers to enhance security and boost revenue.
This decision was announced during a meeting in Ilorin, and it is in response to concerns about security and the need to ensure the safety of lives and property.
The government believes that regulating scavenger operations will also have a positive impact on the state’s revenue.
The State Commissioner for Environment, Mallam Shehu Ndanusa Usman, explained that the government will begin the official registration of scavengers to ensure proper recognition and oversight.
Registered scavengers will be assigned identity codes and provided with uniforms for easy identification.
Mallam Ndanusa issued a warning to scavengers, urging them to refrain from engaging in criminal activities and to operate in compliance with environmental laws. Non-compliance will result in legal consequences.
The Chairman of the Association of Scavengers in the state, Mallam Musa Umah, expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for creating a conducive environment for scavengers to carry out their work.
He also emphasized the association’s commitment to adhering to the laws governing their business operations.
Hajia Afusat Ibrahim, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, announced that the registration process for the association will conclude on December 31st, with full enforcement of the regulations beginning in January 2025.
This move aims to ensure more efficient and secure scavenger operations while generating additional revenue for the state.