Stakeholders Push for Sustainable Waste Policy in Nasarawa State
Environmental advocates and government officials in Nasarawa State are urging the development of a clear and practical waste management policy to align with rapid population growth. This call was made during a recent stakeholders' policy dialogue aimed at creating a comprehensive framework for waste handling in the state.
Call for Innovative Approaches
Dorcas Nicanor, Acting Programme Manager of the Global Initiative for Food Security and Ecosystem Preservation (GIFSEP), emphasized that the policy must go beyond traditional waste collection and disposal. She argued for the inclusion of innovative and sustainable methods, such as waste reduction strategies, recycling mechanisms, and sustainable financing models.
Nicanor highlighted the importance of integrating bio-waste management into the framework, noting that organic waste makes up a significant portion of the waste stream. She explained that organic waste can be converted into valuable resources like compost and biogas, which not only reduces environmental risks but also enhances public health.
Climate Change Challenges
In her address, Dr. Margaret Elayo, Nasarawa State Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, pointed out that the state faces growing challenges from climate change. She stated that these issues pose significant risks to the environment, economy, and public health, requiring a comprehensive approach that combines mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Elayo detailed impacts such as irregular rainfall patterns, increased flooding, and environmental degradation, which demand urgent and coordinated action at all governance levels. Without decisive intervention, she warned, these challenges could undermine the state's goals for sustainable development and improved quality of life.
She revealed that the government has developed the Nasarawa State Policy on Climate Change (NASPOCC) as a strategic framework to address these issues. The state is seeking enhanced collaboration with the private sector and development partners to build capacity and mobilize resources effectively.
Collective Commitment and Future Prospects
Mohammed Bello, Director-General of the Nasarawa State Waste Management and Sanitation Authority, stressed that the future of waste management in the state depends on a collective commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainability. He noted that proper waste management not only cleans the environment but also creates wealth, protects public health, and secures the future for generations to come.
Enoch Okolo, State Coordinator of the Nasarawa State Network on Environment and Climate Justice, expressed commitment to promoting proper waste management practices across the state. He explained that the proposed framework would provide a systematic process for identifying gaps in waste-handling practices, assessing waste volume and types, and establishing clear roles for government agencies, private-sector participants, and local communities.
The dialogue served as a participatory platform to harness collective expertise, encouraging stakeholders to share insights, propose policy statements, and offer practical recommendations for effective implementation.
