Fellow Kwarans, let’s face the truth, good governance isn’t rocket science. The secret to delivering on mandates lies in assembling a dream team of competent commissioners, and aides. With the right people in place, even the most stagnant systems can be transformed.
But here’s the catch, a robust anti-corruption law is crucial to empower citizens to track government spending and have faith in their leaders. Without this, even the best intentions can go awry.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq’s first-term appointments were, frankly, baffling. A newly graduated student as Commissioner of Youth Development? A former classroom teacher Commissioner of Education? A private school staff as Commissioner of Finance? It was a recipe for disaster!
But, thankfully, the governor’s second-term appointments have been a game-changer. Visionary young vibrant lady like Nafisat Buge, Hajia Madibo Kawu, Qoweey Olododo, Lade, Dr Lawal Olohungbebe and others have injected new life into the administration. And, I must say, the governor is finally delivering on his mandate.
Thus, as a proud Kwaran, columnist, public policy analyst, human rights activist, and author, I’m compelled to share my astonishing experience with Kwara State’s Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, last weekend at the Geri Alimi roundabout during the sanitation exercise.
What drives me and fellow Kwarans is our passion for reporting on the daily activities that shape our lives, our community, and our state. We take pride in documenting every event that unfolds, and this encounter was too remarkable to keep to myself.
I was scheduled to appear as a guest on Diamond FM’s popular program, “Ebawadasi,” between 09:00 am and 10:00 am, coinciding with the environmental sanitation exercise. As is well-known, essential workers, including media personnel, health workers, and security operatives, are exempt from the exercise and are allowed to move to their work freely.
Upon arriving at the Geri Alimi roundabout, I find the Commissioner, senior ministry of Environment staff, and security operatives stationed at the blocked road. I patiently observed from my car for 10 minutes before approaching the Commissioner and introducing myself.
I expressed my admiration for her hands-on approach, engaging with people on the bridge, and instructing security personnel at the blocked road. What struck me was her evident eagerness and passion for delivering on her mandate through the Ministry of Environment, ensuring a clean state, and promoting hygiene practices, particularly in areas plagued by open defecation, such as Ilorin West, East, and South with Ajikobi ward been the worst offender in Ilorin west.
As one of ENetSuD team that conducted a comprehensive needs assessment across 193 wards in Kwara State, I possess firsthand knowledge of the situation. My encounter with Commissioner Buge has left me hopeful that, together, we can tackle the environmental challenges facing our beloved state.
The appalling state of open defecation in Ajikobi Ward is a ticking time bomb, necessitating the construction of toilets across the zones. It’s disheartening to note that the majority of houses in Ajikobi Ward lack this basic amenity, underscoring the need for the Honorable Commissioner to intensify efforts in this regard.
Another critical area that demands immediate attention, particularly before the onset of the rainy season, is the blockade of drainage and channelization of gutters across Local Government Areas. It’s nothing short of ineptitude to witness communities adopting a laissez-faire attitude, expecting the government to intervene. In cases where drainage blockage leads to erosion, households should be held accountable and fined accordingly. This would serve as a deterrent, prompting residents to take proactive measures.
Furthermore, the dredging of our rivers should not be overlooked, especially in light of the impending rainy season. Regarding refuse dumping sites, commonly referred to as “akitan,” although significant progress has been made in evacuating these sites, many still persist in Ilorin West, East, and South, with some reaching alarming heights to (Oke-Sobi) meaning Sobi rock. I implore the Ministry of Environment to leverage ENetSuD CEMP report and evacuate these sites, ensuring a cleaner environment.
Refuse dumping on roads poses a significant threat to public safety, often contributing to fatalities or near-misses. While acknowledging the Ministry’s efforts in addressing this issue, I emphasize the need for sustained vigilance to maintain a clean and safe environment.
One glaring weakness that can tarnish a government’s reputation and portray its governor as ineffective is a subpar Ministry of Environment. When this critical ministry fails to deliver, the consequences are dire. Filth and neglect become the hallmarks of every community, triggering a barrage of criticism from opposition parties, citizens, and the media.
Sometimes last year Ilorin metropolis, the situation was nothing short of catastrophic. Refuse dumping on kerbs and at the (Oja-oba) Emir’s Market became the norm, with the entire city reeking of neglect. The state government’s alleged issues with consultants only added fuel to the fire, sparking widespread outrage.
A Ministry of Environment demands a Commissioner with unwavering dedication and proactive spirit. Anything less can have far-reaching implications, sullying the government’s image and undermining its credibility. The stakes are high, and only a robust and efficient environmental management system can salvage the situation.
In conclusion, my encounter with Commissioner Buge has instilled hope that, collectively, we can overcome the environmental challenges confronting our beloved state. It’s time for decisive action, and I urge all stakeholders to join forces in addressing these pressing concerns.
