Dr. Alex Otti, Abia State Governor
The Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) has announced plans to transition from a linear to a circular economy in waste management, emphasizing recycling and repurposing waste products across the state.
Speaking at a press briefing after the weekly executive meeting, Ogbonnaya Okereke, ASEPA’s General Manager, revealed that the agency is shifting towards a modern waste collection system that prioritizes sustainability and resource recovery.
“Instead of wasting the waste, we can recycle and make it useful again,” Okereke stated.
He further disclosed that several organizations have shown interest in partnering with the government on this initiative, aligning with global best practices in waste management.
Also speaking at the briefing, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, highlighted the state’s progress in waste management under ASEPA. He noted that while public spaces are now cleaner, the government is set to introduce direct waste collection services for households and businesses.
As part of the initiative, a revised waste disposal tariff system will be introduced, ensuring government support while requiring minimal contributions from residents to sustain the program.
The government further urged citizens to safeguard ASEPA’s waste bins, which have become targets for scrap dealers, stressing the importance of public cooperation in maintaining the state’s environmental sustainability efforts.
This initiative marks a significant step toward environmental sustainability and economic empowerment, as waste recycling can create job opportunities and reduce environmental hazards in the state.
