As part of the activities put in place to mark the 2024 World Clean-up Day, the Enugu state SDG Youth Volunteers, coordinated by the state Office of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Friday, September 20, embarked on a State-wide cleanup exercise.
The event which spanned across all 17 local governments of the State and saw massive participation from volunteers and local residents was aimed at promoting environmental sustainability and hygiene across the state. More than 200 youth volunteers participated, dedicating their time and energy to rid their communities of waste and raise awareness on proper waste management practices..
The cleanup exercise, which lasted several hours, was a success. By the end of the exercise, an estimated 5 tonnes of waste were gathered from public spaces, including streets, markets, schools, and major highways. The waste collected were properly disposed of at designated waste bins.
In key locations such as Obiagu road, Proda Road in Emene, Zik Avenue in Uwani, Total Roundabout Nsukka and several other locations across the state, the environment was cleared of litter and waste. This action provided immediate relief to local communities, who expressed their gratitude for the initiative.
The SDG Youth Volunteers used the opportunity to educate the public about the importance of proper waste disposal. They engaged local residents, explaining the health risks posed by improper waste management and the steps that individuals can take to maintain clean surroundings. By promoting this awareness, the SDG Youth Volunteers are fostering a culture of environmental responsibility that will last well beyond the world clean-up day.
Speaking on the success of the event, the Focal Person and SSA to the Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, Engr. Onyinye Akubuilo-Okpalanma, expressed satisfaction with the high level of participation from the youth volunteers. She emphasized the importance of environmental sustainability and Hygiene as a key component of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
Addressing the volunteers after the exercise; the Focal Person said,
“Today, we have shown that we can come together as youths to address the challenges of environmental degradation. This is not just about cleaning up; it’s about taking responsibility for the world we live in. We must continue to practise what we’ve started today—proper waste disposal, recycling, and maintaining cleaner surroundings—because a cleaner environment leads to healthier, happier, and more prosperous communities.”
She commended the volunteers for their hard work and urged the state’s youth to remain proactive in promoting environmental sustainability, not just on World Clean Up Day but every day. She also thanked His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu state, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah for his continued support to the youth volunteers and for advancing the SDGs in Enugu State.
As the SDG Youth Volunteers continue their work, Enugu State is setting an example for other states in Nigeria on the importance of community-led environmental action. The future looks bright for Enugu state as it becomes a model for sustainability, youth engagement, and economic growth.