NOA boss blames poor sanitary condition to poor funding

Ekeocha who was speaking at a one-day seminar on ‘Environmental Sustainability in Imo State’ organised by the agency in Owerri yesterday, outlined some of the factors that contribute to the present environmental degradation to include nonchalant attitude of Nigerians, non-disposal of sewage and refuse, increase in population, urbanisation and abandonment of the constitution.He recalled that […]

Ekeocha who was speaking at a one-day seminar on ‘Environmental Sustainability in Imo State’ organised by the agency in Owerri yesterday, outlined some of the factors that contribute to the present environmental degradation to include nonchalant attitude of Nigerians, non-disposal of sewage and refuse, increase in population, urbanisation and abandonment of the constitution.
He recalled that in the past, Nigerians maintained high standard of cleanliness, adding that even in the colonial era, high premium was placed on environmental sanitation at both community and household levels.
The NOA director said: “Environmental sanitation is not only to keep clean but to protect those sources of the environment which support and promote sustainable development.”
He recalled that NOA in 2007 launched a national public campaign on proper management and disposal of waste tagged “Operation Keep Nigeria Clean” to create the necessary awareness and mobilise Nigerians at home, offices, hospitals, public places among others.
Ekeacha said that the seminar was aimed at sensitising stakeholders on their role in achieving sustainable environmental protection and deepening the synergy aimed at maintaining a healthy environment.
Declaring the seminar open, Imo Commissioner for Petroleum and Environment, Prof. Okey Okoro, commended the federal, state and the local governments for their effort in containing the dreaded Ebola disease in the country.