The Benue State Government has called on residents to play their part in maintaining a clean environment, stressing that cleanliness begins with every individual. In a press statement issued on Monday, August 10, 2026, by Sir Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the government highlighted Governor Hyacinth Alia’s unwavering commitment to reversing decades of infrastructural decay across the state.
Evidence of unprecedented interventions, including massive construction and reconstruction of roads, ecological and erosion-control projects, and general urban renewal, is transforming Makurdi metropolis and other parts of the state. These efforts reflect a shared dream of a modern, functional, secure and beautiful Benue. However, the government expressed deep concern that despite the provision of new drainages, cleared pathways and improved public spaces, some residents have resumed dumping refuse in drainages, on pavements and in front of homes. This practice threatens to render useless or devalue the significant investments and collective progress made so far.
The statement noted that a clean environment is not a luxury but a necessity closely linked to public health. Blocked drainages become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and can lead to flooding that spreads waterborne diseases, while heaps of refuse obscure visibility, hide potential dangers and attract rodents and other pests. Clean surroundings, on the other hand, reflect self-respect and pride in communities, attract positive attention and business, and increase property values.
The government appealed to all citizens, landlords, tenants, business owners and community leaders to recognise that the space in front of their homes or businesses is their responsibility and must be kept clean. Residents must dispose of waste properly at all times using only approved collection points or official evacuation hours, and never dump refuse into storm drains or on the roadside. They are also urged to cultivate the habit of proper waste disposal, teach their children the culture of cleanliness and set good examples for their neighbours. Communities are encouraged to organise regular clean-up exercises, which the government is ready to support.
The roads and drainages constructed by the Alia administration are assets belonging to all and must be protected. While the government will continue to enforce sanitation laws and support waste-management efforts, citizens remain the first line of defence. Failure to play that role may halt progress. A cleaner Benue is possible, the statement concluded, but it starts with every person deciding today to stop littering and properly dispose of waste, building not just new infrastructure but a new culture of environmental stewardship and civic pride.
