By Ajifa Ainoko
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Kogi State Chapter, has expressed concern over the indiscriminate dumping of refuse and poor waste evacuation across Lokoja metropolis and other parts of the state.
The association says the unsanitary condition poses serious health and environmental risks and has contributed to reports ranking kogi state among the dirtiest states in the country.

In a communiqué issued at the end of its congress meeting and signed by the State Chairperson, Comrade Stella Edoka, NAWOJ called on the state government and relevant environmental agencies to intensify waste collection, enforce sanitation laws and sustain public enlightenment campaigns on proper waste disposal.
The association also expressed concern over the persistent scarcity of potable water in Lokoja metropolis, describing the situation as a major challenge affecting the health, welfare and daily lives of residents.
NAWOJ appealed to the state government to provide a lasting solution that would guarantee access to clean, safe and reliable water for the people.
On security, the association commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for what it described as proactive efforts in strengthening the security of lives and property across the state, noting that the administration’s commitment has helped sustain peace and create an enabling environment for socio-economic development.
The association, however, drew the attention of the state government and security agencies to the increasing influx of people into kogi state at night, urging enhanced surveillance and intelligence gathering to ensure that such movements do not pose security threats or undermine the prevailing peace in the state.
NAWOJ reaffirmed its commitment to promoting good governance, public health, environmental sustainability and the security of lives and property, while calling on government, relevant agencies and other stakeholders to work together in addressing the identified challenges for the overall development of the state.
