The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged traders in Akwa Ibom to clear blocked drains and properly dispose of waste in their surroundings to prevent flooding and related environmental hazards.
Mrs Mmandu Aisueni, Head of Operations at NEMA in Akwa Ibom, gave the advice on Monday during a sensitisation rally across Uyo metropolis, covering Akpan Andem Market, Udo Umana, Johnson and Ndiya Streets.
Aisueni, represented by Mr Awoji Augustine, a Principal Accountant in the agency, said the rally was organised in partnership with the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
She warned traders against indiscriminate waste disposal, stating that such practices worsen flooding and other ecological problems.
According to her, proper waste management is essential to maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment.
Aisueni explained that the sensitisation effort was part of NEMA’s broader strategy in response to the 2025 Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) forecast, which indicates that Akwa Ibom may experience between 250 and 290 days of rainfall this year, posing a significant risk of flooding and cholera outbreaks.
“As part of our mandates, we are sensitising traders in Uyo metropolis and surrounding areas ahead of the peak of the 2025 rainy season. We have educated them on how to manage waste properly and the dangers of dumping refuse in drainage channels,” she said.
She noted that using English, pidgin, and Ibibio during the rally helped enhance the message’s reach and understanding among the traders.
Also speaking, the State Coordinator of NESREA, Mrs Deborah Dasimaka, criticised the widespread use of non-biodegradable polythene bags in markets and urged for the adoption of alternatives to combat plastic waste.
“These plastic bags end up clogging drainage systems. We need to reduce plastic use as it poses a major environmental nuisance,” she said.
Dasimaka also highlighted the flood risks faced by Akwa Ibom due to its coastal location and urged all residents, not just traders, to stop dumping refuse in drains.
During the rally, NEMA officials distributed flyers and placards bearing messages such as “Stop disposing refuse in gutters”, “Do not block drains” and “Keep your environment clean”.
(NAN)