Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has emphasized that environmental cleanliness is a shared responsibility and not the duty of government alone. He made this call during the official relaunch of House-to-House Sanitary Inspection Services in the state, encouraging residents to actively participate in keeping their surroundings clean to promote public health, and the wellbeing of future generations.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the Conference Hall, JAAC Building, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia, the Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, charged environmental health officers across the state to carry out their duties with integrity, professionalism, and a strong sense of service. He urged them to avoid any conduct that could undermine public trust in their role.
In his welcome address, the Abia State Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, stated that the restoration of the house-to-house sanitary inspection aligns with the Governor’s broader environmental renaissance agenda. He highlighted ongoing efforts such as improved waste management, urban beautification, drainage restoration, and the enforcement of environmental regulations across the state.
According to the Commissioner, the reintroduction of Ndị Ole-Ala (Sanitary Inspectors) is not intended to punish citizens but to prevent disease outbreaks, raise environmental awareness, and foster community-based health education and collaboration.
The event witnessed a large turnout of stakeholders, including members of the Abia State Executive Council, local government council mayors, traditional rulers led by the Chairman of the Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Eze Linus Nto Mba, environmental health officers from all 17 LGAs, school administrators, landlord associations, media representatives, and members of the public.
