August 13, 2024.
By Samuel Ogunsona
The Kwara State Government has prohibited scavenging in the metropolitan area with immediate effect.
This decision comes after collecting N8,000 from each scavengers for identity codes and uniforms.
Last November, the Kwara State government launched an initiative to register scavenger industries, aiming to formally recognize and organize the sector.
As part of this effort, scavengers would receive unique identity codes and uniforms to facilitate easy identification.
However, Permanent Secretary Hajia Afusat Ibrahim announced that the registration window would close on December 31, paving the way for full enforcement starting January 2024
According to Buge, Scavenging is no longer allowed in the metropolitan area.
She emphasized that all previously registered scavengers are advised to conduct their business at the government dump site at Sokoto-Aiyekale off the Expressway.
She said, “It is illegal to dump refuse on road medians, road dividers, roundabouts, gutters, drainage channels, and waterways.
“Anybody caught displaying wares/goods beyond the gutter on the roadside for trading activities will be penalised.
“The Ministry, with immediate effect, will remove the larger roll-roll (waste) bins from the roadside or roundabouts and place them in secure locations where they will not impede vehicular movement.”
Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Musa Buge, emphasized the need to address indiscriminate dumping and promote a cleaner environment.
Registered scavengers must now operate at the designated dump site.
This initiative seeks to maintain a cleaner and healthier environment in Kwara State’s metropolis.
