Governor Inuwa Yahaya has claimed that his government is spending at least N150 million monthly to keep Gombe state clean.
However, the governor stated that street sweeping to maintain the state clean demonstrated the government’s dedication to environmental sustainability and the general well-being of the people.
Yahaya announced this on Wednesday at the start of the 2024 desilt exercise for main storm drains in Gombe.
The governor emphasised the importance of locals supporting the government’s efforts to keep the environment clean by using the newly created rubbish collection stations in their areas.
According to him, indiscriminate dumping of rubbish in drains contributes to environmental concerns, notably flooding, highlighting the need for communal duty to ensure that waste does not get into the drains.
The governor said the impact of flooding in terms of damage to lives and property made it imperative for concerted actions.
He was quoted by NAN saying: “We are commencing the clearing of major water channels so as to ensure the free flow of water.
“This initiative is critical to avert flooding and ensuring the protection of human lives, property, and infrastructure.”
He also stressed the need for residents to support the government’s effort towards keeping a clean environment by utilising the newly built waste collection centres in their communities.
According to him, indiscriminate dumping of waste in drains contributes to environmental challenges particularly flooding, hence the need for collective responsibility towards ensuring that waste does not get into the drains.
The governor said the impact of flooding in terms of damage to lives and property made it imperative for concerted actions, adding that “we are commencing the clearing of major water channels so as to ensure the free flow of water”.
“This initiative is critical to avert flooding and ensure the protection of human lives, property, and infrastructure.
“Additionally, it will prevent the outbreak of diseases among our communities. The main cause of flooding, especially within the metropolis, is the inordinate disposal of waste in our major storm drains.
“Despite our consistent efforts through the relevant ministries, departments, and agencies to enlighten and sensitise communities on the dangers of improper waste disposal, we continue to face significant challenges.
“It has therefore become a policy of this administration to clear all water channels at the beginning of every rainy season,” he said.