The Bauchi state government has developed a solid waste management framework to improve sanitation and promote environmental sustainability.
Dr. Mohammed Bose, Director-General of the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA), stated this on Tuesday in an interview with reporters.
He explained that the framework aims to encourage private sector investment in waste collection and management to protect the environment and safeguard public health.
Bose said the agency has divided Bauchi metropolis into low- and moderate-income areas to facilitate efficient waste evacuation in both zones.
He added that the state government has constructed new waste collection centers in designated sites within low-income areas and relocated those near public structures to enhance sanitary conditions.
Bose mentioned that waste centers at Jahun and Dutse Tanshi primary schools were moved to the Games Village.
He also noted that the state government has enacted a law regulating waste scavenging and recycling operations for private companies and recycling plants.
Furthermore, Bose said the government collaboratively established a fecal sludge treatment plant with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
The facility is designed to treat fecal matter and convert it into biogas and organic fertilizers.
The government plans to build additional fecal treatment facilities to strengthen sanitation infrastructure across the state.
Regarding flood mitigation, Bose stated that the agency is working with community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance community engagement in sanitation and waste management to reduce flood risks.
“BASEPA is responsible for conserving and protecting the environment. The agency is actively working with CBOs to desilt blocked waterways,” he said.
He explained that desilting drains, part of their sanitation activities, is a key flood prevention measure.
Bose emphasized that BASEPA enforces policies promoting a healthy environment through environmental health officers and sanitary inspectors across Bauchi.
He added that the agency has distributed tools to community organizations for sanitation, desilting, and waste clearance efforts to prevent flooding.
Bose also mentioned awareness campaigns conducted in areas like Yelwa, Angwan Gas, Nufawa, Angwan Makafi, Gwalaga, and other low-cost areas of Bauchi, aimed at promoting environmental sanitation.
The campaign encourages residents to adopt safer waste disposal practices.
He warned that those caught dumping waste irresponsibly into waterways would face prosecution.
