Governor Muhammed Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has highlighted the significant financial commitment the state government makes to maintain cleanliness, revealing that it costs ₦150 million monthly. During the inauguration of the 2024 desilt exercise for major storm drains in the Gombe metropolis, Yahaya emphasized the government’s dedication to environmental sustainability and the well-being of its residents through regular street sweeping and waste management initiatives.
Yahaya urged residents to support the government’s efforts by using newly built waste collection centers to prevent indiscriminate dumping of waste, which exacerbates environmental challenges, particularly flooding. He stressed the collective responsibility of the community in ensuring that waste does not clog drains, thereby mitigating the risk of flood damage to lives and property.
The governor explained that the state is taking proactive measures to clear major water channels to ensure the free flow of water, which is crucial for preventing flooding and protecting human lives, property, and infrastructure. This initiative is also aimed at preventing disease outbreaks within communities. Despite ongoing efforts to educate the public on proper waste disposal, Yahaya acknowledged the persistent challenges faced in this area.
He reiterated his commitment to environmental conservation through proper waste management and extensive tree planting. Additionally, Yahaya announced the construction of 21 new waste collection centers under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, in partnership with the World Bank. The state Environmental Protection Agency (GOSEPA) will ensure daily waste collection and management as part of the broader strategy to maintain a clean and healthy environment.