As the world marked the 2025 World Environment Day on June 5, the Delta State Waste Management Board, in partnership with the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN), Asaba Chapter, has issued a passionate call to action: Deltans must take urgent steps to stop plastic pollution and adopt responsible waste management practices.
The event, themed “End Plastic Pollution,” was celebrated with a public sensitization campaign held in Asaba, where residents were urged to embrace environmentally friendly habits to protect their communities from the growing threat of plastic waste.
Chairman of the Delta State Waste Management Board, Hon. Mofe Edema, represented by the Director of Operations, Mr. Michael Esegba, emphasized the critical role citizens must play in preserving the environment. He warned that unless immediate steps are taken to reduce plastic use and ensure proper disposal, the health and safety of communities across the state could be compromised.
Esegba noted that the indiscriminate dumping of refuse, particularly plastic, has become a major environmental hazard in Delta. He urged residents to reduce their plastic consumption and adopt the habit of recycling, stating that every piece of reused plastic is a victory against pollution.
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He stressed the importance of engaging with approved Private Sector Participants (PSPs) for waste collection and disposal, rather than relying on unauthorized cart pushers who contribute to environmental degradation. “When we pollute our environment, we put ourselves in danger,” he said. “To end plastic pollution, we must change our attitude towards waste and support structured, safe disposal systems.”
Reiterating the board’s commitment, Esegba added that the Delta State Waste Management Board will continue to spearhead initiatives aimed at eradicating pollution and building a cleaner, safer environment for all.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Samson Osuere, President of the Association of Waste Managers in Delta State, called on citizens to view waste management as a shared responsibility. He appealed to residents to always patronize only registered PSPs, highlighting that the group is committed to making waste collection services accessible and efficient.
“A clean environment is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for healthy living,” Osuere said. “We must all play our part in keeping Delta safe, clean, and plastic-free.”
The event culminated in a vibrant road walk that drew attention across Asaba, as participants marched from Interbau Roundabout through Ibusa Road to the DLA Road Junction, chanting slogans and distributing educational materials on plastic waste reduction.