The Rivers State Government has taken a bold step toward revitalizing its waste management strategy, following the successful statewide sanitation exercise held last Saturday.
Determined to reclaim Port Harcourt’s historic “Garden City” status, the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) is now partnering with seasoned professionals to introduce forward-thinking solutions to the state’s environmental challenges.
During a strategic session with stakeholders on Wednesday, September 10, RIWAMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Ibimina Wokoma, highlighted the importance of joint efforts in transforming the negative perceptions surrounding waste disposal in the state. He affirmed the capability and dedication of the newly appointed board members, noting their shared commitment to achieving a cleaner, greener Rivers State.
Dr. Wokoma expressed optimism that with the strategies already in motion, Rivers State could soon emerge as one of Nigeria’s cleanest states.
Also speaking at the gathering, Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, Chairman of the RIWAMA Board, reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to implement far-reaching reforms. He emphasized that environmental sustainability and public health would remain top priorities and commended the agency’s partners for bringing fresh, innovative ideas to the table.
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Dr. Nwanosike encouraged stakeholders to tailor their proposals to suit the state’s unique environmental context, ensuring that proposed solutions are both practical and sustainable.
Responding on behalf of the visiting experts, Dr. Ibrahim Odumboni, Managing Director of Le Dynasty Acres Limited and former head of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), stated that his team is in Rivers State to assess the current waste management framework and recommend lasting improvements.
According to Dr. Odumboni, the intervention will focus on enhancing staff capacity, improving operational efficiency, boosting agency viability, addressing funding gaps, creating job opportunities, and optimizing service delivery and equipment usage.
