The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has passed a resolution, urging the State Government to partner with the private sector to establish waste recycling plants across the State, as part of efforts to convert waste to wealth, protect the environment and create jobs.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by a member, representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Ukpong Akpabio, during plenary on Tuesday.
Moving the motion entitled “Waste to Wealth: Need to Partner with the Private Sector to Establish a Recycling Plant in the State,” Akpabio, who cited Order III, Rule 1 of the Standing Orders of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly (Seventh Edition), argued that the sharp increase in the volume of commercial and domestic waste generated daily in the State, much of which is disposed in landfills often finds its way into gutters and drainage systems, thereby worsening flooding and environmental degradation.
The lawmaker emphasised that proper waste management is critical to public health and environmental sustainability, adding that recycling offers significant advantages over landfills, which poses risks through greenhouse gas emissions, soil and water contamination, and the release of toxic substances to surrounding communities.
Akpabio, who is the Chairman, House Committee on, Business, Rules and Ethics, further observed that waste recycling has become a major economic opportunity, noting that Nigeria’s recycling industry is estimated to more than $2 billion worth according to the Punch Newspaper reports of January 30, 2023.
He explained that the influx of scavengers into the State in search of recyclable materials such as plastic bottles, cartons and scrap metals often transported to other states for processing, underscores the economic potential of establishing recycling plants within Akwa Ibom.
According to him, having recycling facilities in the State would minimise environmental and health risks associated with landfills, stimulate economic growth, generate revenue and create employment opportunities across the waste management value chain, in line with Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, particularly the Economic Consolidation and Expansion Blueprint, which promotes public-private partnerships in recycling.
The motion which was seconded by the Member representing Nsit Ibom State Constituency, Eric Akpan, received overwhelming support from lawmakers.
Contributing, the Member for Ibeno/Esit Eket State Constituency, Udobia Udoh, described the motion as timely and beneficial, noting that it would help to prevent pollution, conserve natural resources and create jobs.
Jerry Otu, member representing Ikot Ekpene/Obot Akara, Itorobong Etim, (Uruan), Bassey Pius Bassey (Okobo), Lawrence Udoide (Ini)and the Chief Whip of the House, Effiong Johnson, also spoke in favour with focus on sustainable development and revenue generation in the state.
Ruling on the motion, the Speaker of the House, Udeme Otong, noted the unanimous support the motion enjoyed, describing it as a people-oriented initiative with far-reaching benefits for the State.
