Waste disposal: Environmentalist seeks public behavioural change

An environmental expert, Mr Andrew Ihejirika, has called for public behavioural change among community members, to combat waste disposal, poor sanitation and environmental hazards in Bwari, Abuja.

Ihejirika made the call in an interview with newsmen, on Thursday in Abuja.

He expressed worry on the incessant unhygienic practices threatening FCT communities, and also stressed the need for sustained public reorientation and behavioural change among Nigerians.

“It has become normal these days for people to defecate publicly or just dump wastes on the roadside, drainages and uncompleted buildings around their neighborhood.

“We see these unhygienic practices daily which have unfortunately not gained much attention of the relevant authorities as it should.

“People need to be reminded of the consequences of these actions and must be encouraged to change and desist from the unhealthy act; it is not normal and it is an eyesore,” he said.

He said that it was imperative that residents adopt responsible sanitation habits to safeguard public health.

He noted that indiscriminate waste disposal, open defecation and poor hygiene culture remained a major contributor to environmental pollution and the spread of diseases in especially densely populated communities.

The expert also urged government agencies, community leaders and civil society groups to intensify awareness campaigns to continually educate residents.

He said this would serve as a reminder to them to properly manage waste, and take personal hygiene and environmental protection seriously.

He also emphasised the need to compliment government efforts in tackling environmental challenges in the society.