Edo Unfolds Waste Management Reform

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Edo state Government has put modalities in place to train the Edo State Waste Management Board(ESWMB) workforce and Waste managers towards achieving environmental sustainability.

The blueprint for the task was unveiled in- depth  to the team, comprising of officials of the ESWMB and Waste managers, charged with the responsibility of keeping the state clean,  in a One Day Retreat on “The New Waste Management Reform and implementation Strategy”, put together by Committee on Project Clean Up Edo, in government House Benin City.

Speaking on behalf of the state government   Chairman, Strategic Planning Unit, Prof Julius Ihonvbere said “  Governor  Obaseki understands the issue of  waste management, is passionate about it, and ready to provide resources and  materials”.

According to him, environment has a direct link with tourism, health and investment , which in turn have multiplier  effects on the populace, therefore should be handled with utmost  efficiency

National growth LS

He said there would be no room for compromise,  saying, “we want to see results, a departure from the past”.

Prof Ihonvbere enjoined the waste managers   to brace up adding that excuses will not be acceptable.

He pointed out that the retreat was to enable participants come up with a wholistic  strategy on how to achieve the set goals; sounding a warning that  ‘’government will be walking softly but holding a big stick to ensure compliance through enforcement. “

On her part, the Head of  Edo state Civil Service, Mrs Gladys Idahor, said environmental sustainability is very dear to the governor, and enjoined officials of the Waste management Board “ to ensure they add value to the system or step aside now because the train will be moving fast”.

Consultant, Project Clean Up Edo , Mr Ola Oresanya  said they will be looking at  innovative ways  things can be done, capacity building from within,  in- training of civil servants.  He said they hope to see better landscaping in a matter of months, through public awareness, Dumpsite development  and management plan, and a whole lot of ideas.

According to Mr Oresanya, Lagos state started with ideas and not money; and today Lagos state is clean. He said “Let us prove to detractors that Edo state can be the most beautiful  city in the country. We have the managers, investors and a willing governor. What stops us from achieving it?”.

The forum also looked into how SEEFOR can key in and assist ESWMB by way of  Youth employment  and socio-economic activities.

Immediate past  permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment,  Mr Hanson Ikhelowa, and former General Manager, ESWMB, Ms. Gillian Ochugbue, shared their experiences, and proffered suggestions on how to overcome some of the challenges they faced.

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