The Rivers State Government has issued a strong warning to waste contractors operating across the state, saying it will terminate contracts of those who fail to properly carry out refuse evacuation.
In a statement released on Wednesday by Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Adviser on Media to the State Administrator, the government described the current performance of some waste contractors as “unsatisfactory” and said it would no longer tolerate poor service.
The Administrator of the state, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, is said to be deeply concerned about the increasing refuse in parts of the state, especially in Port Harcourt, which poses a serious threat to public health and cleanliness.
“Contractors who fail to meet their obligations in evacuating refuse promptly and efficiently will have their agreements revoked,” Igbikiowubo warned.
As part of efforts to improve waste disposal, the government has reopened an old refuse pit and is working to upgrade the dump site along the Airport Access Road to boost waste management capacity in the state.
The government also reminded residents of their role in keeping the environment clean. Citizens were urged to make use of designated waste collection points and avoid dumping refuse indiscriminately.
The statement encouraged people to report any uncollected waste that stays for more than 48 hours so that swift action can be taken.
“This administration remains committed to enforcing strict compliance with contracts and will not hesitate to blacklist underperforming contractors,” Igbikiowubo added.
The Rivers State Government stressed that environmental sanitation is a shared duty and called on contractors, government agencies, and residents to work together to make the state clean, safe, and sustainable for all.
