Edo State Reintroduces Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise Starting April 26, 2025

Edo State Reintroduces Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise Starting April 26, 2025The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the reintroduction of the Monthly Environmental Sanitation Exercise across the state, set to commence on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The exercise will be held on the last Saturday of every month from 7:00 am to 10:00 am.This initiative aims to promote a healthier and cleaner environment for all residents of Edo State. During the exercise, all human and vehicular movements will be strictly prohibited except for officers on essential duties, ensuring full participation by the public in cleaning their immediate surroundings.The decision follows growing concerns over heaps of refuse, blocked drainages, and environmental degradation in the state. The Edo House of Assembly had earlier passed a resolution urging the government to revive the monthly sanitation exercise to tackle waste management challenges effectively.The Edo State Waste Management Board has been actively engaging residents and markets in Benin City to sensitize them on proper waste disposal practices. The Board’s General Manager, Mrs. Rita Idehai, emphasized the importance of using licensed waste managers and warned against indiscriminate dumping of refuse, with strict enforcement and penalties for offenders.Youth groups in the state have also shown strong support by participating in clean-up exercises, particularly in market areas, to complement government efforts.Residents are encouraged to cooperate fully with the exercise to ensure a cleaner, greener, and healthier Edo State.Key Details:Exercise Date: Last Saturday of every month, starting April 26, 2025Time: 7:00 am to 10:00 amRestrictions: No human or vehicular movement except essential servicesPurpose: To promote environmental cleanliness and proper waste managementEnforcement: Strict penalties for defaulters, including arrests for illegal dumpingCommunity Involvement: Residents urged to engage licensed waste managers and participate activelyThis renewed commitment reflects the state government’s dedication to making Edo one of the cleanest states in Nigeria through collective responsibility and effective waste management policie