The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State Chapter, has called on relevant government agencies to strengthen the enforcement of environmental sanitation laws, including the arrest and prosecution of persistent offenders, to protect public health and improve environmental cleanliness across the state.
The council also urged residents, particularly those in Abakaliki metropolis, to take responsibility for maintaining their compounds, clearing drainage channels and properly disposing of refuse.
The state chairman of the NYCN, Comrade Douglas Ochishi, made the call on Friday while addressing journalists at the council’s annex office at Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki.
Ochishi expressed concern over the neglect of residential and commercial surroundings by some landlords, tenants and business operators, warning that blocked drainage systems and improper waste disposal could undermine environmental safety and public health.
“Government cannot do everything alone. Every resident must complement the efforts of the government by keeping their compounds, frontage drainage systems, and immediate surroundings clean. Environmental cleanliness begins with individual responsibility,” he said.
He urged the state ministries responsible for environment and health, alongside other relevant agencies, to intensify public enlightenment, conduct regular inspections and ensure compliance with applicable sanitation laws.
The NYCN chairman further called for appropriate legal action against persistent offenders, including the lawful sealing of premises, arrest and prosecution where justified, in accordance with existing laws and due process.
As part of its efforts to promote environmental responsibility, the council, through its Directorate of Environment, has launched an initiative tagged “Operation Keep Your Surroundings Clean.”
The initiative is designed to mobilise residents to maintain clean premises, clear drainage channels and adopt proper waste-disposal practices to help prevent sanitation-related and communicable diseases.
Ochishi called on community leaders, landlords’ associations, tenants, market operators, business owners and youth organisations to support the campaign and promote collective responsibility for environmental protection.
He reaffirmed the council’s commitment to supporting government initiatives aimed at improving public health, environmental sustainability and the general welfare of Ebonyi residents.
