Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced plans to relocate the dumpsite currently situated along the Port Harcourt Airport–Obiri-Ikwerre Road, a major entry point to Port Harcourt, the state capital. The initiative aims to address public health concerns and improve the aesthetic appeal of the city for visitors and residents alike.
Addressing Environmental and Health Concerns
During an inspection on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, Governor Fubara visited a proposed replacement site—a disused burrow pit near Bambo Estate, off Eneka Road in Igwuruta, Ikwerre Local Government Area. Accompanied by Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, Chairman of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), and Dr. Ibimina Wokoma, its Managing Director, the governor highlighted the environmental and health hazards posed by the current dumpsite.
"The kind of environmental hazards we are facing along the Airport–Obiri-Ikwerre Road, with the smell at the entrance to the state, is not proper," Fubara stated, as reported in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi. The governor emphasized that the relocation is part of a broader effort to establish a permanent refuse dumpsite that meets acceptable environmental and public health standards.
Plans for the New Dumpsite
The proposed site at the disused burrow pit is under evaluation to serve as the state’s permanent waste disposal facility. Fubara assured that the government is working to formalize ownership of the land and expedite construction of an access road to ensure the site’s functionality.
"We have not concluded the issue of the burrow pit, but the access road is being addressed by the government. I will ensure everything needed to secure government ownership of this burrow pit is done," he said.
This relocation is expected to mitigate the negative first impression created by the current dumpsite, which affects both residents and visitors arriving via Port Harcourt’s major entry point.
Commendation for RIWAMA’s Efforts
Governor Fubara also praised the Rivers State Waste Management Agency for its improved and proactive approach to waste management across the state. The agency’s efforts align with the administration’s commitment to fostering a cleaner and healthier environment in Rivers State.
Additional Engagements
In addition to the dumpsite inspection, Fubara visited the Permanent Secretaries’ Quarters in Elimgbu Town, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, to assess ongoing construction work. This demonstrates the governor’s broader focus on infrastructure development and improving living conditions for public servants in the state.
Commitment to a Cleaner Port Harcourt
The relocation of the dumpsite is a significant step toward achieving a cleaner and more sustainable Port Harcourt. By addressing environmental concerns and improving waste management infrastructure, the Fubara administration aims to enhance the quality of life for residents and create a positive impression for visitors.
For more updates on this initiative and other developments in Rivers State, stay tuned to portharcourtblog.com
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