In a bid to improve waste management and safeguard public health, the Kogi State Government, through the Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management, has partnered with the National Water Resources Institute (NWRI), Kaduna, under the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, to assess the suitability of dumpsite locations in Lokoja metropolis.
A team of experts from NWRI, led by Engr. Hadiza Ajoge, visited the state to conduct a scientific assessment of existing dumpsites, examining their environmental and public health implications.
Speaking during the engagement, Engr. Ajoge emphasized that the study would provide data-driven insights into waste disposal practices, pollution risks, and the impact of dumpsites on nearby communities.
She noted that the findings would guide future waste management decisions, ensuring they align with global best practices and minimize environmental hazards.
In His response, the Commissioner for Environment and Ecological Management, Engr. Joseph Oluwasegun, described the assessment as a critical step in shaping sustainable waste management policies in the state.
“This collaboration with NWRI and other stakeholders is key to ensuring that waste disposal in Kogi State meets global environmental standards”
He further stated that the exercise aligns with the government’s commitment to environmental sustainability and the protection of water resources from contamination.
“His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, remains committed to implementing sustainable strategies that protect both public health and the environment”
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya Farouk, commended the partnership, describing it as a significant move towards improved water resource management and environmental protection.
He stressed the importance of locating dumpsites in environmentally safe areas to prevent the contamination of surface and groundwater sources.
“Water is a critical resource, and its safety is directly linked to proper waste management. The outcome of this study will help us implement policies that protect our water bodies and public health”
The assessment exercise engaged key stakeholders, including officials from the Ministry of Water Resources, the Sanitation and Waste Management Board, Lokoja Local Government representatives, community leaders, academics from Federal University Lokoja, and the Kogi State Environmental Protection Board. Discussions focused on critical factors such as the proximity of dumpsites to residential areas, distance from water bodies, terrain suitability, accessibility, zoning regulations, and overall ecological impact.
Following the meeting, the team embarked on a field evaluation of existing dumpsites, assessing their conditions and identifying areas requiring urgent intervention.They also conducted water quality tests on surface and groundwater sources around the dumpsites to determine potential contamination risks and collected soil samples for further analysis.
The findings from the assessment will guide future waste management decisions, including the possible relocation of dumpsites to more suitable locations and the implementation of measures to prevent environmental hazards.
Some of the areas visited during the exercise included Sarkin Noma, Kabawa, Felele Dumpsite, Akpami-Oba Community, Adankolo, Ganaja, and Confluence Beach.
Accompanying the Commissioner on the assessment tour were the Director of Administration, Mr. Patrick Ajayi; Director of Sanitation, Mr. Dare Omorayewa; General Manager of Sanitation and Waste Management, Mr. Femi Ajayi; and General Manager of the Kogi State Environmental Protection Board, Mrs. Ebiloma Ruth.
The Kogi State Government remains committed to promoting sustainability and urges residents to support efforts aimed at keeping the state clean and safe.
Mariam Adams
Public Relations Officer, Ministry of Environment and Ecological Management
