Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has flagged off an environmental sanitation exercise in collaboration with the Peace Riders of Nigeria, bikers from across the 36 states who arrived on Friday to participate in the initiative.
Speaking to journalists shortly after the flag-off in Bukuru, Jos South Local Government Area of the state, the Director-General, Samuel Dapiya, said that beyond sanitation, several engagements had been lined up in Jos.
These include visits to motor parks in partnership with the NURTW and outreach programmes such as a presentation at the School for the Deaf.
According to him, the project is symbolic, as it shows that individuals and groups from different parts of the country are willing to support PEPSA’s efforts, especially in promoting peace and environmental sustainability.
“If Plateau were not peaceful, we would not see people travelling long distances to be part of activities like this,” he noted.
He added that the flag-off is a clear indication that Plateau remains the Home of Peace and Tourism.
While acknowledging that the state experienced some tension last month, he expressed gratitude that peace is steadily returning.
“You can see people coming out to participate in initiatives like this again, which is encouraging,” he said.
He also appreciated the Governor of Plateau State for his consistent support and proactive leadership, adding that the level of support currently being received, including international collaboration, has significantly improved PEPSA’s operations.
“Our work does not end here. We will continue sanitation efforts in other communities.
“For instance, we recently carried out community sanitation in Angwan Rukuba, and we are also collaborating with sister NGOs like EBOMI, which conduct regular sanitation exercises. We will continue to support and strengthen these partnerships,” he added.
“As the rainy season sets in, our message to Plateau residents is simple: it takes Plateau people to keep Plateau clean.
“If you own a shop, a business, or a house, and there is a gutter or waterway nearby, do not wait for the government to act,” he urged.
He called on the people to take responsibility by clearing and desilting drainage channels, adding that “when you do that, we can come in to evacuate the waste.”
Our correspondent reports that there was significant compliance across several communities in Jos North and Jos South Local Government Areas.
PEPSA has also introduced a house-to-house inspection of toilets, bathrooms, soakaways, and general home hygiene.