Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has emphasized the need to shift away from traditional waste disposal methods in the state, calling for innovative solutions to transform waste into income-generating ventures. This, he asserts, will not only clean up the streets but also create new opportunities for employment and revenue.
Governor Fubara made these remarks while inaugurating the newly appointed Board of Directors for the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday. The Governor charged the board with the responsibility of revolutionizing the state’s waste management system, setting high expectations for their performance.
The newly constituted RIWAMA board is chaired by Engr. Edward Namiesimagh, with Hon. Bishop Best, Dr. Ipalibo Sogules, Richard Mazi, Civian Y. Nwibari as members, and Hon. Orukwem Amadi-Oparaeli as the Managing Director. Governor Fubara urged them to think beyond the conventional methods of waste management, encouraging them to tap into the sector's untapped potential for financial gains and job creation.
Governor Fubara reflected on the past, stating that previous administrations had struggled to address the issue of waste, often merely relocating it to new dumpsites where it continued to pose environmental hazards. He noted, "Today, we are putting together a team to look at these challenges from a different perspective. I don’t want this to be the usual process where, at the end of the month, you simply come for payments. This is about change and impact."
Fubara urged the board to focus on the greater good, warning against the temptation to misuse their positions. "Don’t appoint your friends as sweepers or debris evacuators and start building hotels or buying luxury cars. Instead, look at the broader possibilities waste management offers. It’s a global industry, a revenue generator, and a significant source of employment. Let’s see what change you can bring to Rivers State."
The Governor was candid about the visual blight that waste represents in Port Harcourt, lamenting the eyesore presented by open dumps, particularly those located at key entry points to the city. "One of the first things that greet you when driving into Port Harcourt is the dump site along the Obiri-Ikwerre-Airport Road. I’m not happy with that. Your first task is to relocate it. That area needs to be completely closed off, as it is the entrance to the city. Find a new, more appropriate location for our waste," he urged.
He also expressed confidence in the board's ability to handle the task at hand, pointing out that they had been carefully selected due to their past successes in public service. He called on them to restore Port Harcourt’s reputation as the "Garden City" and not let it degrade further into a "Garbage City." The Governor underscored the importance of results, making it clear that he expects significant progress in improving the cleanliness of the state.
Fubara also issued a stern warning to the board, stating that any failure to meet expectations would result in swift action. He made it clear that he would not hesitate to remove non-performing members, noting that returning to the era of a sole administrator for the agency could be an option if the team falters.
The Governor further emphasized that the new waste management strategy must be inclusive and spread across all senatorial districts of Rivers State. He called for a system that accommodates the interests of all residents, ensuring that competent supporters of the administration who are capable of handling smaller waste management tasks are also engaged.
"We need a balanced approach. This is not about favoring one group over another. We want to see everyone involved in the process of cleaning up our state. I’m confident you will impress us with your efforts," he remarked, urging the board to be effective ambassadors of his administration.
In response, Engr. Edward Namiesimagh, the newly appointed Chairman of RIWAMA, expressed gratitude to the Governor for entrusting them with the vital task of restoring Port Harcourt’s cleanliness. He pledged that the board, with its collective experience and determination, would do everything possible to achieve the Governor's vision.
"With the calibre of people assembled here, we are excited and committed to achieving the goal of restoring Port Harcourt to its former glory. We are confident that, with your support, we will succeed in this mission," Namiesimagh said.
