Residents of Awka, the Anambra State capital, have commenced a massive cleanup of their surroundings ahead of the statewide environmental sanitation exercise scheduled for Saturday, July 4, following Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s declaration of a state of emergency on the environment.
The sanitation exercise forms part of the state government’s renewed efforts to tackle flooding, improve environmental hygiene and restore blocked drainage systems across Anambra.
Across several parts of Awka on Friday, residents were seen sweeping streets, evacuating refuse, clearing blocked gutters and opening drainage channels in preparation for the exercise.
Governor Soludo had directed that the statewide sanitation exercise would focus on removing waste from drains, clearing blocked waterways and cleaning flood-prone areas to ensure the free flow of rainwater during the peak of the rainy season.
Many residents described the initiative as timely, noting that maintaining a clean environment is essential to preventing floods, protecting lives and property, and promoting public health.
They also pledged to comply with the government’s directive by actively participating in the sanitation exercise.
The exercise is expected to involve residents, government agencies, market associations, community leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders working together to improve environmental sanitation across the state.
The Anambra State Government has urged residents to take ownership of their environment, stressing that a cleaner and healthier state requires the collective effort of every citizen.
The statewide sanitation exercise is expected to serve as a major step in the state’s broader campaign to promote environmental sustainability and reduce the impact of flooding during the rainy season.
