Rivers Govt Threatens to Sack Underperforming Waste Contractors

The Rivers State Government has warned waste management contractors across the state that their contracts may be terminated if they fail to improve their performance in refuse evacuation. The warning was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Adviser on Media to the State Administrator, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas.

Igbikiowubo stated that the administration will not tolerate negligence that results in the defacement of the environment or exposes residents to health risks. He stressed that contractors who fail to fulfill their obligations in promptly and effectively clearing refuse will have their contracts revoked. “This decisive step reflects the administration’s commitment to ensuring a clean, healthy, and visually appealing environment for all,” he said.

To enhance waste management operations, the government has reactivated a previously abandoned pit as an additional dump site and is upgrading the facility located along the Airport Access Road. According to Igbikiowubo, these initiatives are part of efforts to boost waste disposal capacity and align waste management practices with global standards.

The government also reminded residents of their role in maintaining environmental cleanliness. Citizens were urged to use approved waste disposal points, adopt proper dumping practices, and report any unattended refuse within 48 hours to the relevant authorities. The statement reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance stance toward inefficiency in public service delivery, warning that underperforming contractors will be blacklisted and replaced. It concluded by emphasizing that environmental sanitation is a shared responsibility aimed at keeping Port Harcourt and its environs “safe and sustainable for present and future generations.”