By The Akwa Ibom State Government has called for private sector participation in efforts to transform waste management challenges into a sustainable waste-to-wealth economy, as part of plans to improve environmental sanitation and generate economic value.
Governor Umo Eno made the appeal in Uyo on Saturday during a media briefing marking his third anniversary in office, where he outlined key achievements and ongoing reforms in the state.
He said the government is open to partnerships with investors and organisations capable of delivering innovative waste management solutions that can convert refuse into usable and profitable resources.
According to him, the state has continued to commit significant resources to its Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency, but results have remained below expectations, necessitating a new investment-driven approach.
Eno said the agency has been directed to engage credible partners who can help redesign the state’s waste management system for better efficiency and sustainability.
“We are looking for a company that can help us convert waste into wealth. Once we get the right partner, the issue of indiscriminate waste will be significantly reduced,” the governor said.
He also stressed the need for stronger public awareness and behavioural change to curb indiscriminate dumping of refuse across the state.
On infrastructure, Eno disclosed that his administration has completed over 1,348 kilometres of roads within three years, noting that road development remains ongoing across all local government areas in the state.
He said the government is focusing on economically viable road projects while continuing expansion efforts, adding that infrastructure development will remain a key priority of his administration.
“Every local government area has benefited from road projects. Development is continuous because as new roads are opened, others require maintenance or expansion,” he said.
The governor maintained that no administration can complete all road projects at once, but insisted that sustained investment will continue to improve connectivity and economic activity across Akwa Ibom.
