Port Harcourt, Rivers State – Governor Siminalayi Fubara has directed the immediate closure of a dumpsite located along the Obiri-Ikwerre-Airport Road in Port Harcourt. The governor cited the negative visual impact of the dumpsite as a primary concern, noting that it creates a poor first impression for visitors arriving in the city.
Fubara issued the order on Friday during the inauguration of the new Board of Directors for the Rivers State Waste Management Agency. He challenged the newly appointed board to identify an alternative waste disposal location and to implement more innovative and economically viable waste management strategies.
“Today, I am here putting a team together to look at these challenges differently,” Fubara stated, urging the board to move beyond traditional waste management practices. He emphasized the significant economic potential of the sector, highlighting its capacity for job creation and revenue generation. “It is an area in this world that there is so much money in. It is an area that creates employment and generates huge revenue. It is not just depending on what I will give to you. Consider what change you’ll bring to the work, that’s what I want to see in Rivers State.”
The governor expressed his personal dissatisfaction with the current state of waste management in the city, particularly the dumpsite near the airport. “I want you to understand that I feel very unhappy with the sight I see. When you are driving into Port Harcourt, one of the first things that will welcome you is the waste dump that you see along the Obiri-Ikwerre-Airport Road. I don’t feel happy about it,” he said. “Your first task should be to relocate it. That particular place needs to be completely closed because it is the entrance to the city. You need to get a new place where we can relocate our waste.”
The new board, chaired by Engr. Edward Namiesimagh, with Hon. Orukwem Amadi-Oparaeli as Managing Director, was charged with transforming the face of Port Harcourt regarding waste management. Other board members include Hon. Bishop Best, Dr. Ipalibo Sogules, Richard Mazi, and Civian Y. Nwibari. Fubara stressed the importance of inclusivity in their operations, urging the board to accommodate supporters with the capacity and competence to contribute to the refuse management efforts. He also warned against corruption and self-enrichment, stating that he would not hesitate to dismiss any member found wanting.
In his acceptance speech, Namiesimagh thanked the governor for the appointment and assured him that the board would work diligently to restore Port Harcourt to its former glory. “When I see the calibre of people you assembled, all of us are happy, and I assure you that with our period of experience in our fields and politics and interaction with people and the zeal that comes with this job, we assure you that we will do our best to make sure that the policy of restoring Port Harcourt to its lost glory is achieved with your support,” Namiesimagh said.
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