Need for Commercial Vehicle Operators in Abia State to Comply with Mandatory Display of Waste Bin.

By Charles Ifenkwe

A renowned British
actress, presenter,author and activist, Dame Joanna Lumley once said, quote, ” I hate the hand that comes out of a car and just drops litter in the street.I hate that! It’s just utter laziness,lack of interest in other people,lack of interest in the planet…its a lack of concern”.

And Bill Bryson added that, ” I see litter as part of a long continuum of anti-social behaviour.” Surely, these quotes attest to the fact that commuters, travellers and pedestrians contribute in no small measure to littering our cities and improper disposal of waste which affects our ecosystem and longivity of the planet.

Apparently, Abia is gradually and steadily being transformed into one of the cleanest States in the Country. This is seen from the myriads of commendations pouring in from across the nation and outside the shores of the nation.

In other words, the outpouring of commendations is a testament to the fact that Abia has recorded tremendous improvement in the sanitary condition of Umuahia the State Capital and other cities including Aba the commercial hub of the south East.

Interestingly, the present administration is not resting on its oars, but is very desirous and committed to improving on the milestones already recorded. For example,one of the fallouts from the State Executive meeting held two weeks ago is the enforcement of mandatory display of waste bins in all commercial vehicles across the State, effective April, 1,2026.

As the Hon commissioner puts it in a Press briefing shortly after the meeting,” In line with the administration’s commitment to sustaining the remarkable progress recorded in environmental Sanitation, the Abia State Govt will commence the enforcement of mandatory display of waste bins in all commercial vehicles across the State…this initiative is designed to instill proper waste habits among commuters and further strengthen the States Sanitation framework”.

So far, the compliance level is appreciable. However, many more commercial vehicle and tricycle operators need to make hale while the sun shines. They should willingly procure and display the waste bin in their vehicles including tricyles( popularly known as Keke) in obedience to Govt directive and in appreciation of the good works of ASEPA under the leadeship of Mazi Ogbonna Okereke by taking advantage of this good provision.

Furthermore, it may not be out of place for the Abia State House of Assembly to play complimentary role by initiating a bill and promulgating it into a law, prescribing appropriate sanctions/ fines for those who offend the law on littering.

Already, Govt is intensifying efforts in monitoring and enforecement of environmental standards with non- complaint businesses santioned appropriately. Also, ASEPA is advancing sustainable waste management through strategic partnerships aimed at converting waste into valauble resources.

For example, there is ongoing initiative of recycling plastic into usable materials with operational facilities already in Aba along Enugu- Port Harcourt Express way. Furthermore, plans are underway to transition into converting organic waste into diesel and other hydrocarbon products, marking a significant step towards circular economy.

With all these packages in place, Abians and all residents should desist from indiscriminate dumping of refuse and make effective use of designated disposal points as cleaner, healthier and more sustainable environment requires collective efforts of Govt and the people. Let’s join hands to make our environment cleaner to enjoy healthier and more prosperous life.

Charles Ifenkwe writes from Umuahia