The recent appointment of a new management team for the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) has sparked concerns among environmentalists, who argue that the state’s sanitation struggles will persist unless professionals are put at the helm.
Onyekachi Okoro, Executive Director of the Media Awareness and Justice Initiative, emphasized the need for a paradigm shift in the management of RIWAMA.
According to Okoro, the state government’s penchant for appointing political cronies to manage RIWAMA has hindered the agency’s effectiveness in tackling sanitation challenges.
“Until the Rivers state government stops appointing political cronies to manage RIWAMA, the state will continue to struggle with sanitation,” he stressed.
Okoro’s concerns are not unfounded.
The appointment of unqualified individuals to manage critical agencies like RIWAMA can have far-reaching consequences, including inefficient waste management, environmental degradation, and health risks for citizens. To address these challenges, Okoro advocates for the appointment of professionals with expertise in waste management and environmental sustainability.
“The state government should prioritize the appointment of qualified professionals to manage RIWAMA,” he urged.
Furthermore, Okoro emphasized the need for environmental impact assessments to be conducted on the proposed relocation site of the Obiri-Kwerre dumpsite. This, he argued, would ensure that the new site does not pose environmental and health risks to surrounding communities.
He also called on the new RIWAMA management to develop innovative strategies for waste disposal, engaging citizens in the process.
“The new management should come up with better ways for citizens to dispose of their waste, promoting a culture of sustainability and environmental stewardship,” he said.
As the Rivers state government navigates the complex challenges of sanitation and waste management, it must prioritize professionalism, expertise, and community engagement. By doing so, they can ensure a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for citizens.