Edo State Government has announced that, at the end of each month, there will be an award for the cleanest market and its environs in the city that will attract a handsome prize.
Edo State Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Hon. Jonathan Lawani, made the announcement during a meeting with leaders of Market Women Association, in Benin City.
He urged traders in the state to support the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration’s drive to ensure a clean and healthy environment, especially in markets across the state.
He decried the incessant dumping of refuse in unauthorised places especially markets and median along market areas, noting that all hands must be on deck to ensure that the state is kept clean, safe and healthy for all.
Lawani said the meeting was held to solicit the support of the traders in ensuring cleanliness in the state, noting, “Women as mothers of our homes and markets play a major role in instilling discipline especially on environmental sanitation as part of home training.”
The commissioner urged for synergy between members of the association and the state government while enjoining them to be environment ambassadors in their respective markets.
Engr. Lawani assured the traders of government plans to build recycling plants that will not only recycle waste but will also aid in providing a means of livelihood for residents.
President of the Association, Mrs. Blacky Omoregie applauded the Commissioner for the initiative, noting that the challenge of illegal dumping of refuse in market places are mostly carried out by residents who had formed the habit of bringing refuse from their homes and dumping them in market areas.
Mrs. Omoregie also complained about the lackadaisical attitude of some Waste Managers who do not evacuate Waste from the market on time.
She, however, assured the Commissioner of the association’s readiness to partner with the Ministry to reduce this menace of dirt to its barest minimum.
General Manager, Edo State Waste Management Board, Mr. Charles Imariagbe said the accredited waste managers are not exempted from sanctions for failing to perform their duties.
He said the waste management board can be contacted via the customer complaints numbers: 08109670790, 08109670791, for any complaints concerning waste management.
