Cross River Government Vows to Sustain Sanitation Culture, Defies Heavy Rain to Monitor Exercise

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Cross River State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining a robust sanitation culture across the state, promising to intensify enforcement and public awareness despite challenges posed by weather conditions and residents’ attitudes.

Statewide Sanitation Drive

During the September edition of the monthly sanitation exercise on Saturday, 27 September, the monitoring team led by the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi, braved heavy downpours to ensure strict compliance in urban and rural areas.

Speaking with journalists after the exercise, Hon. Osogi expressed gratitude for a successful operation despite the early-morning rain, noting that each month’s exercise builds on previous efforts to create a cleaner, safer environment.

“Rain or shine, our commitment to environmental sanitation will not waver. We are determined to entrench this culture across the state,” the Commissioner said.

Flood Preparedness Measures

Highlighting the ministry’s proactive flood prevention strategy, Hon. Osogi disclosed that the government has embarked on awareness campaigns, desilting of drainages, and improving waste evacuation systems to curb flooding risks.

He also cautioned against reckless environmental practices, including building on waterways and indiscriminate dumping of refuse, stressing that offenders would face sanctions.

Rewards and Enforcement

At the Parliamentary Extension Abattoir, sanitation workers who demonstrated exceptional compliance were rewarded with cash gifts, a gesture aimed at encouraging community participation.

Similarly, the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Environment, Mr Magnus Ntui, reiterated that enforcement efforts would extend beyond Calabar to all rural communities, lamenting the persistent disregard for sanitation rules by some residents.

Residents Commend Governor Otu

Participants in the exercise praised Governor Bassey Edet Otu’s administration for reviving the sanitation initiative, noting visible improvements in cleanliness and environmental health since its reintroduction.

Analysts believe that sustained sanitation efforts will not only enhance public health but also boost Cross River’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s cleanest states.

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