In a rare display of reverence towards the cultural heritage of Plateau State, and a reflection of his earnest efforts toward enhancing sanitation and environmental protection, Hon Samuel Nathaniel Dapiya, Director General, Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency, PEPSA on Tuesday, 19thth March, 2024 paid a royal homage to His Royal Majesty, Da Gyang Jacob Buba, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman, Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs.
Hon Dapiya, accompanied on the august visit by the management staff of the Agency said “the primary objective of the visit was to seek royal blessings for the agency and for its campaign aimed at combating indiscriminate waste dumping”.
Adopting a cogent approach towards environmental preservation that can bring about progressive change and leveraging on the significant role of the traditional institution as the custodians of environment, Hon Dapiya added that “the agency sought support in securing lands for dumpsites across various local government areas of the state to facilitate the implementation of waste recycling programme, afforestation, and the eradication of illegal mining activities”. PEPSA’s solicitous endeavours offer a renewed perspective on the integration of indigenous leadership and the adoption of modern environmental practices.
Responding, the highly elated and revered paramount ruler appreciated the Director General for the visit and pledged the traditional institution’s total support for the noble inventiveness. Da Buba stressed PEPSA’s critical role in ensuring a safe and clean environment for the people of Plateau State and welcomed the agency’s continued engagement with the traditional council.
The Gbong Gwom Jos also advised the Agency to take its advocacy to worship centres noting that progress is seldom achieved in isolation. It is only through unity, collaboration, and mutual respect that our environments will thrive and prevent the spread of diseases in communities.
He applauded PEPSA’s efforts and assured that the agency would be invited to address the council of chiefs in their next meeting to discuss their endeavours and requirements in their respective domains, facilitating community sensitization efforts.
Adding colour and glare to the visit was the presence of distinguished Senator Simon Mwadkwon, Hon. Peter Vwandung, TIC Chairman of Jos South, Hon. Daniel Dakim, TIC Chairman of Barkin Ladi, Hon. Sati Suwa, TIC Chairman of Riyom, and Elder Gyang Dudu, President of BECO
The historic visit and heartening appeal for cooperation with the Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency, PEPSA, sends out a pronounced message on environmental sustainability and preservation and drives home the impact of individuals acknowledging their unique role in fostering a cleaner, healthier environment, imbued with the richness of their ancestral heritage.
Highlight of the royal visit was the symbolic donation of two waste bins to the Gbong Gwom – one for solid/recyclable waste and the other for wet/compost waste. This www.pointblank.com learns, was a gesture aimed towards promoting waste segregation even at collection points, facilitating ease of recycling.
