…Launch Campaign Against Indiscriminate Waste Disposal
…As AKSEPWMA Boss Becomes Latest Pillar
In a bid to contribute to the excellent record of cleanliness and environmental sustainability achieved by the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA), the A.R.I.S.E Ambassadors, have expressed their desire to collaborate with the Agency to raise awareness and educate the public on the importance of proper waste management.
The collaboration, according to the renowned support organisation, aims to build on the Agency’s accomplishments and further promote a clean and healthy environment as encapsulated in the A.R.I.S.E Agenda of the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno.
These formed part of the discussions on Monday, when the Board of Trustees, Executive Council and Members of the A.R.I.S.E Ambassadors met with the Chairman of AKSEPWMA; Obong Prince Ikim alongside Board Members and Management Staff of the Agency at their office in Itam, Itu LGA.
In his address, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the A.R.I.S.E Ambassadors; Comrade Ernest Akpan, commended the excellent work of the AKSEPWMA honcho, Obong Prince Ikim.
He cited the numerous awards Akwa Ibom has received for cleanliness under Obong Ikim’s leadership, including four consecutive awards for being the cleanest state in the country and continent. Mr. Akpan expressed the group’s commitment to supporting Pastor Umo Eno’s efforts in protecting and preserving the environment as well as improving upon cleanliness in the State.
On his part the Secretary, B.O.T; Hon. Quincy Ukpong, gave high praise to Governor Eno, for the impressive achievements made in all sectors of the State, including the environment, in just five months since assuming office.
Ukpong, who is the Supervisor for Health and Social Services in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, noted that the A.R.I.S.E Ambassadors have been able to successfully promote the superlative performance of the State Chief Executive, expressing thanks to the Governor’s impressive start.
He informed that the Ambassadors have resolved to collaborate the Agency on a number of programmes to benefit the State. “These programmes are aligned with the Governor’s vision and will contribute to the overall development of Akwa Ibom,” he stated.
Earlier, Chairman of the Executive Council of the group, Rev. Richard Peters, eulogized Obong Prince Ikim for his unwavering loyalty to the PDP administration over the years.
The cleric observed that in the ever-changing political landscape, Obong Ikim has consistently demonstrated his support and commitment to the PDP and the State Chief Executive, emphasizing that Ikim’s steadfast loyalty was an example for others to follow.
Peters observed that in light of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET) flood prediction, which included Akwa Ibom as one of the States at risk, the ARISE Ambassadors saw the need to partner with the AKSEPWMA to launch a campaign to educate the public on proper waste disposal and the dangers of indiscriminate dumping of waste on the drains.
The campaign, which will involve a series of public education and awareness activities in urban and rural areas, will include radio and television jingles, as well as other community engagement programmes.
The goal, according to Rev Peters, is to reach as many people as possible with the message that responsible waste disposal is essential to reducing the risk of flooding and its associated impacts.
He noted that the A.R.I.S.E Ambassadors will continue to mobilize support for Pastor Umo Eno, and praised the Chairman of AKSEPWMA for his willingness to collaborate on this important initiative.
Meanwhile, in recognition of Obong Ikim’s outstanding support and dedication to the Umo Eno-led administration, the B.O.T. and Executive Council of the A.R.I.S.E Ambassadors unanimously honoured and bestowed him as a pillar of the organization.
Responding, the latest Pillar of the ARISE Ambassadors; Obong Prince Ikim thanked the organization for their creativity and collaboration in promoting the administration of Pastor Umo Eno.
While expressing his gratitude for the honour, the AKSEPWMA Chairman acknowledged the hard work and dedication of the group in projecting the A.R.I.S.E agenda of the governor.
Obong Ikim emphasized Governor Umo Eno’s passion for environmental management and sustainability, and vowed to work tirelessly to support and advance the Governor’s vision.
The Security Expert-cum- politician revealed that the Agency will continue to follow the “three E’s” strategy, focusing on Education, Enlightenment, and Enforcement to promote responsible environmental practices.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving the Agency’s goals, Ikim expressed his gratitude to the A.R.I.S.E ambassadors for their support and commitment to partnering with the Agency to continue its successes.
One of the highlights of the visit was the presentation of the ARISE AMBASSADORS’ official t-shirt, face-cap, and customized exercise books to Obong Ikim as well as his official induction as a “Pillar” of the organization.
The visit had the presence of the Board of Trustees and members of the National Executive Council of the organization.
