By George George Idowu
The Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management in Kogi State, through the Kogi State Sanitation and Waste Management Board, has extended its ongoing clean-up campaign to focus on clearing drainages across state capital.
The Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, on Friday, led an inspection and monitoring exercise along Murtala Muhammad road in Lokoja.
He emphasized that the sustained cleaning of drainages aims to mitigate flooding in the state’s roads during the 2024 rainy season.
According to him, the initiative aligns with Governor Usman Ododo’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and ensuring a high-quality living environment in the state.
The ministry has initiated the desilting of drainage channels to facilitate efficient flood management and clearance of blocked drainage systems.
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Engr. Joseph emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean, sustainable, and livable environment for the well-being of the people.
The ongoing cleanup campaign includes activities such as refuse removal, vegetation control, disengagement of roadside traders, and evacuation of drain silt to enhance water flow.
Major waterways in various parts of the city have been effectively cleared, including drains from Kpata to the International market, Paparanda square to Kpata market, former people shopping centre to the post office, Kogi hotels to Graphics Newspaper, Kogi Hotels roundabout through the government house to Stella Obasanjo Library, and currently Specialist Hospital to Ganaja flyover, among others.
The Commissioner reiterated the state government’s zero-tolerance policy towards environmental abuse and urged residents to refrain from indiscriminate refuse dumping, drainage blockage, and construction on waterways and drainage alignments.
Mr. Femi Ajayi, the General Manager of the Sanitation and Waste Management Board, highlighted the importance of ensuring unobstructed water flow through the channels throughout the year.
He commended the state government’s proactive approach to environmental issues and emphasized the need for continuous monitoring to ensure compliance with sanitation regulations and justify the government’s efforts.
