PRESS BRIEFING BY HON. BERNARD JAMES SHONZEN HON. COMMISSIONER, MINISTRY OF WASTE MANAGEMENT AND RESOURCE INNOVATIONS ON THE STATE OF SANITATION AND WASTE MANAGEMENT IN TARABA STATE AND THE NEED FOR RE-INTRODUCTION OF SANITARY INSPECTORS

Protocol. Ladies and Gentlemen. 

I stand before you today with a critical message regarding waste management in our beloved Taraba State. As part of our ongoing commitments to maintaining a clean and sustainable environment, The Ministry of Waste Management and Resource Innovations frowns at the way citizens of the state don’t keep their immediate surroundings clean and dump waste indiscriminately across the State like in the gutters thereby blocking drainages and causing flooding. I wish to on this regards communicate some significant changes and regulations that will take effect in the coming immediately.

Re-Introduction of sanitary Inspectors

Sanitary inspectors will now be re-engaged to protect public health by ensuring compliance with regulations related to sanitation, hygiene, and environmental safety. They will play a crucial role in preventing the spread of diseases, ensuring the safety of food, and maintaining clean and healthy environments

Utilization of Government Approved Dump Sites

In alignment with our policy, both commercial waste managers and individuals are mandated to utilize government-approved/certified dump sites for proper waste disposal. These sites are established to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible waste management. No one should dump waste on the streets, gutters or waterways. Similarly, no one should offload construction materials like sand, blocks etc on the roads.

Ending Illegal Dumping

It is imperative that we put an end to the dangerous practice of illegal dumping. Therefore, I declare that all illegal dumping of waste in uncertified sites should stop henceforth. Anyone found violating this policy will pay a fine of One Hundred and fifty Thousand Naira (N150, 000) Naira only. Similarly, any private waste manager found dumping waste in an uncertified dump site shall have their trucks confiscated and be made to pay a fine of Three Hundred Thousand Naira only (N300, 000). Henceforth no private waste managers shall operate without permit/authorization from Ministry of Waste management and Resource Innovations.

Commencement of Central Waste Evacuation Services 

Beginning from May 1, 2025, the Ministry of Waste Management and Resource Innovations shall provide this services to all institutions, all hotels within the State, public and private hospitals, clinics, pure water companies, Bakery, restaurants etc. Sanitation levies and service charges shall be attached to this accordingly. In view of these, waste from these places should be properly packaged for evacuation.

Community Responsibility for Waste

The general public is hereby advised to take personal responsibility for their waste. While the Ministry will provide evacuation services, we encourage everyone to responsibly manage their waste generated at home and communities. Together, we can foster a culture of cleanliness and environmental stewardship.

Environmental Compliance Checks

To ensure adherence to these regulations, our sanitary Inspectors and enforcement team will be deployed to conduct regular inspections throughout the state. They will assess compliance levels and provide guidance to those who may need assistance with proper waste disposal practices. Please cooperate with them to achieve a cleaner Taraba of the desire of His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Governor of Taraba State.

In conclusion, I call on all Tarabans, business owners, and stakeholders to join us in this very important initiative to promote good public Health and protect our environment. Keep your immediate surrounding clean. Together we can achieve a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for ourselves and our future generations. Let us all commit to responsible waste management practices and make Taraba a shining example of environmental stewardship.

Long Live Taraba State!

Thank you for your attention and cooperation.