As the saying goes, cleanliness is next to godliness. In Akwa Ibom, environmental sanitation is observed every last Saturday of the month to keep the state clean. It’s no longer news that the state has won the award for the cleanest state in the country.
Last Saturday was no exception. The sanitation exercise was announced on the radio, scheduled to take place from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., with movement restrictions in place. Everyone was expected to clean their surroundings, clear the gutters, and carry out other necessary tasks to maintain a hygienic environment.
Since my weekdays were quite busy and my surroundings needed attention, I woke up early to make good use of the morning. I started by tidying up my room before stepping outside.
The veranda was littered with nylon bags, biscuit wrappers, and other waste, while some corners had overgrown grass. It was time for serious work. I began by weeding the surroundings, sweeping, and gathering the scattered waste in one spot before placing everything into a bag for easy disposal.
Next, I proceeded to the nearby gutter, where I removed plastic bags and other debris, disposing of them properly. I also noticed some discarded plastic roofing sheets from a nearby store and gathered them in one place.
No Vehicular Movement
Around me, I saw neighbors actively cleaning their surroundings, while environmental officers were busy clearing the streets and removing waste from designated dump points. Law enforcement agencies were also present, arresting defaulters who failed to participate in the exercise.
At the end of the sanitation, the streets looked very clean and serene. The effort was worth it, as it not only improved the appearance of the environment but also contributed to a healthier and more sustainable ecosystem.
I am @nsigo1 – thanks for reading!