By Ajifa Ainoko
As the world marks World Environment Day, residents of Lokoja, the Kogi State capital, have called for collective action to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices.
The residents, who spoke in separate interviews with Radio Nigeria, emphasized the need for proper waste management, tree planting, and increased public awareness to address environmental challenges affecting the city.
A trader at Lokoja International Market, Mrs. Grace Yakubu, said indiscriminate dumping of refuse remains a major concern in many parts of the town.
She urged residents to cultivate the habit of disposing of waste properly, noting that blocked drainage channels often contribute to flooding during the rainy season.
According to her, environmental protection should be seen as a shared responsibility rather than the duty of government alone.
Also speaking, a civil servant, Mr. Ibrahim Akpala, stressed the importance of tree planting to combat rising temperatures and environmental degradation.
He observed that many trees have been cut down for development projects without adequate replacement and called on government agencies, schools, and community groups to embark on regular tree-planting campaigns across Lokoja.
On her part, a student of one of the tertiary institutions in the state, Miss Deborah James, advocated greater environmental education among young people.
She said many residents are unaware of the long-term consequences of pollution and poor sanitation practices.
She recommended the introduction of environmental clubs in schools and regular sensitization programmes to encourage eco-friendly habits.
Another resident, Mr. Olaiya Ojo, highlighted the need for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations.
He called on relevant authorities to sanction individuals and organizations that engage in activities that pollute the environment, including indiscriminate waste disposal and the burning of refuse in residential areas.
The residents agreed that preserving the environment requires the active participation of all stakeholders, including government, private organizations, and citizens.
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