Kaduna Targets Cleaner Environment: Scientists, Civil Groups Endorse Monthly Sanitation

By AbdulHakeem Mutiu Adejumo-Ajeseku, Kaduna-Nigeria

BTvNEWS: A coalition of scientists, geologists, environmental journalists, and civil society organizations, including faith-based groups, has commended the Kaduna State Government for its decision to reintroduce the monthly environmental sanitation exercise.

This praise was expressed during the August edition of the Kaduna Climate Media Hangout, held at the HAWLAAB Media Training and Research Center (HMTRC) in Kaduna State, Nigeria, BTV News reports.

The Kaduna Climate Media Hangout brought together various stakeholders to review the state’s environmental policies and challenges.

Participants welcomed the state government’s renewed commitment to a cleaner and healthier environment.

As per their statement, the decision to reinstate the sanitation exercise set to commence at the end of September 2025, to mark a significant step towards achieving a greener Kaduna.

In his remarks at the roundtable discussion, Yahaya Mohammed, Controller General of the Safety Awareness and Environmental Support Initiative (SAESI), affirmed that the monthly environmental sanitation exercise would be reintroduced on the last Saturday of each month, lasting for three hours.

According to him, residents are expected to clean their surroundings and stay at home during this period.

He revealed that relevant laws and policies are being prepared to support the initiative and ensure full compliance.

Also contributing to the discussion, Mr. Samson Auta, Co-Director of the Interfaith Mediation Centre, encouraged citizens to take personal responsibility by staying home and using the time to clean their immediate environment.

“Cleanliness is next to godliness,” he said, urging religious and traditional leaders to lead by example in raising public awareness.

In his contribution, Dr. Abubakar Shafiu, Head of Research and Diagnostics at African Climate Reporters and a lecturer at the School of Health Science and Technology, Kaduna, stressed the link between environmental cleanliness and public health, noting that many diseases are directly related to improper waste disposal and environmental neglect.

In the same vein, the African Institute of Waste Management and Environmental Studies (AIWES) also lauded the government’s decision, highlighting the importance of collaboration among environmental organizations in sensitizing the public.

Dr. Abdullateef Tayo, Registrar of AIWES, described the reintroduction of the sanitation exercise as a crucial move in the fight against diseases like malaria, typhoid, and cholera.

In a goodwill message, Mallam Yusuf Idris, Special Adviser to the Governor on Climate Change, expressed appreciation to the organizers of the Climate Media Hangout.

He urged residents to support government initiatives aimed at tackling climate and environmental challenges

He also encouraged media professionals to amplify stories around climate action and explore opportunities in carbon credit and environmental journalism.

“There are huge opportunities in climate journalism,” he said, “and the media must continue to play its role in informing and educating the public.”

The stakeholders’ support for the monthly sanitation initiative is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of environmental cleanliness in promoting public health and sustainable development.