Media practitioner, Daniel Akpenuchi Whyte, has called on the newly appointed Chairman of the Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA), Samuel Nwanosike, to prioritize efforts aimed at restoring Port Harcourt’s lost image as the Garden City.
In an open letter, Whyte congratulated Nwanosike on his appointment, describing it as an opportunity to demonstrate impactful leadership. He noted that the state capital, once renowned for its beauty, has now been reduced to a “Garbage City” due to poor waste management practices.
Whyte proposed a road map to tackle the menace effectively.
The Letter read,
Port Harcourt’s Environmental Crisis: An Open Letter to RIWAMMA Chairman
Congratulations, Sir, on your appointment as RIWAMMA Chairman. This is a monumental opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in Port Harcourt, restoring its pride as the Garden City and advancing your political career through impactful leadership. The city faces a critical challenge: waste management. With a strategic approach, you can turn our “Garbage City” back into a beacon of cleanliness and health. Here’s a roadmap to tackle this crisis effectively.
There’s Sickness in the Air, It’s not the Weather. It’s our environment. Rising sicknesses among residents are not due to the weather but the deteriorating state of our surroundings. Unlike our neighbours in Aba, who once adapted to challenging conditions, Port Harcourt’s residents are suffering from an environment choked by waste. Immediate action is essential to protect public health and restore the city’s reputation.
Here’s a roadmap to tackle this crisis effectively.
Eliminate Median Dumpsites and Establish Designated Sites
The unsightly and unhygienic use of road medians as dumpsites must end. A complete ban on this practice is a critical first step. Instead, establish strategically placed, well-maintained dumpsites at regular intervals (e.g., every 5-10 kilometers) across the city. These sites should be accessible, clearly marked, and regularly serviced to prevent overflow.
To enforce compliance, create a dedicated RIWAMA Task Force to monitor and penalize illegal dumping. This task force should engage residents, business owners, motorists, and passersby, ensuring they use designated sites. Public awareness campaigns can educate citizens on proper waste disposal, fostering a culture of responsibility.
Partner with Private Waste Management Firms
Government alone cannot manage the entire waste system effectively. To enhance efficiency, engage private Independent Service Providers (ISPs) to collect waste directly from streets and households, transporting it to designated dumpsites. These firms can operate on a scheduled basis, ensuring consistent waste removal, particularly in high-density areas. Clear contracts and performance metrics will hold ISPs accountable, addressing past failures like those seen on the NTA-Choba route, where contractors have displayed gross incompetence.
Address Street Trading’s Environmental Impact
While their regulation may not rest solely with RIWAMA, collaborating with other agencies to relocate them into organized market spaces will reduce the significant roadside litter, defacing the city and posing health risks.
Relocate the Airport Road Dumpsite
I am not sure whose idea it was to locate a dumpsite at our Airport Road. The decision to situate a dumpsite along Airport Road is one of the worst planning failures in the state. The airport is the gateway into our state. The first impression investors, visitors, and tourists encounter. Welcoming them with stench and filth sends the wrong message. This dumpsite should be relocated immediately.
Reclaim Public Infrastructure
Our flyovers, bus stops, and public spaces have been overtaken by hoodlums and makeshift dwellers, leading to waste accumulation, including human faeces, and safety concerns. These spaces lack sanitation facilities and were not designed for habitation. Partner with security agencies to clear illegal occupants and install public toilets where feasible. Regular maintenance and patrols can prevent reoccupation, ensuring these spaces remain clean and safe.
Implement a Robust Consequence and Reward System
A culture of negligence has allowed waste mismanagement to thrive. Introduce a strong consequence system to deter violations, such as fines or community service for illegal dumping, with public naming of offenders to amplify deterrence. Simultaneously, reward compliance through incentives like recognition for the cleanest neighbourhoods or businesses. A well-publicised task force should consistently enforce these measures, making examples of defaulters to drive behavioural change.
Terminate Incompetent Contractors
The contractor responsible for the NTA-Choba route has repeatedly failed to evacuate waste, despite public outcry. Such incompetence cannot be tolerated. Terminate their contract and blacklist them from future engagements. Replace them with reliable, performance-driven contractors to ensure consistent waste collection and disposal.
Port Harcourt does not deserve to be buried under filth. The mandate of RIWAMA is not just about evacuating refuse — it is about restoring dignity, protecting public health, and rebranding our state.
Restrict Scavengers from Dumpsites and Collection Points
Another major litters are Scavengers who unpack already packages waste allowing for breeze to move waste materials flying around and further making a mess of our environments.
Invest in Waste Recycling
As an alternative revenue generation point for RIWAMMA, the agency could employ young people for professional scavenging for recyclable items.
Explore infrastructures that could turn waste to electricity as well.
Hon. Nwanosike, you have the opportunity to make Port Harcourt worthy again of the name “Garden City.” History will remember you for how decisively you act now.
Once again, congratulations on your appointment. May your tenure bring back the pride of the Rivers people.
