Concerning environmental cleanliness, the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy environment in Nigeria cannot be overstated. With its large population and growing urban centers, ensuring environmental hygiene is crucial not only for aesthetic reasons but also for public health, as a clean environment can help prevent diseases caused by air pollution. Several Nigerian states have distinguished themselves through their commitment to environmental sanitation, earning recognition for their efforts. According to a report by the National Technical Study Group (NTSG), which conducted a comprehensive review under the STONE Pro-Max 2023 project, eight states stood out for their cleanliness.
Particularly, Akwa Ibom State has emerged as the cleanest state in Nigeria for the sixth consecutive year. This achievement is attributed to the state’s proactive measures in addressing environmental pollution, including continuous public awareness campaigns and substantial investments in Sanitation infrastructure. Ebonyi State has also consistently ranked among the cleanest states in Nigeria. The state government has implemented rigorous Waste Management practices and modernized its sanitation facilities, ensuring that waste is properly disposed of and environmental hazards are minimized. This dedication to cleanliness has kept Ebonyi at the forefront of environmental hygiene in the country.
States lead cleanliness drive with sustainability, sanitation focus.
Cross River State has made significant strides in promoting a healthy environment by emphasizing tree planting to combat soil Erosion and improve air quality. The state’s commitment to Environmental Sustainability has placed it ahead of many others in the cleanliness rankings. Similarly, Enugu State has implemented various sanitation programs to ensure that its environment remains conducive for both residents and visitors. The provision of modern waste disposal Infrastructure and the enforcement of Pollution control measures have contributed to the state’s high ranking. Delta State’s approach to achieving a clean environment involves the enforcement of strict sanitation regulations and the execution of various waste management projects. These initiatives have successfully reduced pollution levels, making Delta one of Nigeria’s cleanest states.
Edo State, on the other hand, has focused on educating its residents about proper waste disposal methods and the benefits of a clean environment. The state’s campaigns have extended to schools, where students are taught the importance of environmental hygiene from a young age. Plateau State’s emphasis on maintaining its natural beauty through cleanliness initiatives has also earned it a spot among the cleanest states in Nigeria. The state’s efforts to address waste management challenges have been instrumental in preserving its environment.
NTSG calls for enhanced hygiene and sanitation efforts in Nigeria.
Finally, Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, consistently ranks as one of the cleanest areas in the country. Given its status as the seat of power and its influx of dignitaries, maintaining a clean environment in Abuja is a collective effort, with residents being urged to responsibly dispose of waste. The NTSG report not only highlights the achievements of these states but also underscores the importance of learning from their successes. The report encourages all stakeholders to engage in peer review mechanisms, visiting both the top-performing and lagging states to understand and adopt best practices. The call for the reintroduction of monthly sanitation exercises and the enforcement of drainage clean-up is particularly crucial, as these measures could significantly improve environmental hygiene across Nigeria.
Moreover, the report draws attention to the urgent need for government intervention in combating open defecation, which remains a significant issue in Nigeria. With the World Health Organization (WHO) setting a target to end Open Defecation by 2025, there is a pressing need for increased provision of public toilets and improved sanitation infrastructure. The NTSG also emphasizes the broader impact of cleanliness on public health, noting that improving hygiene and sanitation practices could help increase the average life expectancy in Nigeria, which has seen a decline in recent years.
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In response to these findings, officials in Akwa Ibom State have reiterated their commitment to maintaining a clean environment. The state government has pledged to continue its efforts in waste management and environmental protection, and it aims to sustain its position as the cleanest state in Nigeria. The recognition received by Akwa Ibom serves as a testament to the state’s successful strategies and provides a model for other states to emulate in their quest for environmental sustainability.