By Olubunmi Ibiteye
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Erelu Tosin Aluko Ajisafe, has reiterated the government’s unwavering dedication to fostering a clean and epidemic-free environment.
This commitment was emphasized during a crucial meeting with the Heads of Environmental Health Officers from Local Government LGs and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs)in Ekiti state.
Addressing the gathering, Commissioner Aluko-Ajisafe stressed the importance of collective action in achieving a clean environment.
Highlighting the deficiency in food hygiene practices and the apparent low visibility of Environmental Health Officers at the local government levels, she emphasized the crucial need for collaborative actions from all stakeholders.
The commissioner noted that the Oyebanji-led administration has taken significant steps to bolster environmental sanitation efforts by recruiting 90 new Environmental Health Personnel, alongside the acquisition of essential sanitation equipment.
She explained that measures are underway to enhance waste management infrastructure, enforce sanitation regulations, and provide comprehensive trainings for officers and prosecutors.
Commissioner Aluko-Ajisafe urged officers to redouble their efforts and foster collaboration with community leaders to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining a clean environment.
She reaffirmed the government’s steadfast dedication to prioritizing sanitation initiatives and supporting officers in addressing their operational requirements.
Moreover, the government will soon officially announce a ban on Styrofoam usage, highlighting the significance of proper waste disposal practices. Stringent measures will be implemented to enforce market sanitation regulations and conduct thorough house-to-house inspections to ensure adherence to sanitation standards.
The Permanent Secretary Mr. Babatunde Alokan outlined key strategies to enhance market sanitation and streamline house-to-house inspections. Stressing the importance of on-the-job trainings, he encouraged officers to forge alliances with relevant authorities to realize shared objectives.