Rivers waste management agency begins compulsory profiling of scrap dealers, scavengers
The Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA, has commenced compulsory profiling of scrap dealers, waste recyclers, refurbishers and PET bottle scavengers operating across the state as part of efforts to identify genuine operators and curb illegal activities in the sector. The agency’s Managing Director, Dr Ibimina Wokoma, said the exercise would enable RIWAMA to establish […] Rivers waste…
The Rivers State Waste Management Agency, RIWAMA, has initiated the mandatory profiling of scrap dealers, recyclers, refurbishers, and PET bottle scavengers operating within the state. This move aims to identify reputable operators and curb illicit activities within the sector. Dr. Ibimina Wokoma, RIWAMA's Managing Director, announced the exercise during a meeting in Port Harcourt, stating that it will establish a comprehensive database of operators while tackling instances of theft, vandalism, harassment, and illegal scavenging.
Wokoma highlighted that some scavengers have vandalized government facilities and left refuse scattered on the streets by tearing open properly bagged waste in search of recyclable materials. He labeled clients of such scavengers as accomplices and called for a concrete plan to eradicate illegal scavenging and its linked activities.
Under the new directive, entities engaged in scrap dealing, recycling, refurbishing, or PET bottle collection must complete a profiling form, attach necessary documents, and submit it to RIWAMA within a month. Enforcement teams will begin operations post the one-month deadline, with operators expected to adhere to the profiling requirements.
RIWAMA has also created a verification application to aid field officers in scanning and confirming the identities of operators during enforcement operations. Non-compliance with the profiling process will be deemed a violation of RIWAMA regulations and may result in enforcement action. The profiling exercise follows mounting concerns over the deteriorating waste situation across Rivers State, particularly in Port Harcourt, where parts of the capital have become littered with refuse.
This issue has persisted since the emergency rule, with RIWAMA struggling to efficiently clear refuse from designated collection points. Consequently, some residents have resorted to indiscriminate disposal of waste, including dumping refuse in the middle of roads and unauthorized locations.
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