Nasarawa Govt Declares State of Emergency on Illegal Waste Dumping

The Nasarawa State Government has declared a state of emergency on illegal refuse dumping, pledging to confront the escalating environmental crisis affecting major towns—particularly Lafia, the state capital.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Princess Margaret Itake Elayo, during a media briefing on Tuesday.

The declaration comes on the heels of a newly installed warning sign prohibiting unauthorized waste disposal at Agwan Jaba, a Lafia neighborhood widely known for chronic illegal dumping. Located along a key highway, the area has become an eyesore and a public health risk due to poor waste management practices.

Commissioner Elayo described the situation as both harmful to the image of the state and dangerous to public health. She noted that refuse often reappears at dumping sites just days after scheduled sanitation exercises.

“There are designated waste disposal points, and anyone who fails to comply with these guidelines will face legal action,” Elayo warned.

She emphasized that the ministry is ramping up public awareness campaigns, particularly in areas near schools and residential neighborhoods, to educate citizens about the health hazards of indiscriminate dumping.

“Environmental cleanliness is not just about aesthetics—it directly impacts public health,” she said, adding that the government is committed to restoring environmental standards across Lafia and other towns.

Elayo also announced plans to systematically document all illegal dump sites in the Lafia metropolis. This initiative aims to identify problem areas and ensure that violators are held accountable.

She concluded with a stern warning: “Illegal dumping will no longer be tolerated. Offenders will face strict penalties as we enforce Governor Abdullahi Sule’s vision of a cleaner, healthier Nasarawa.”