By BANNERNEWS Reporter, Calabar
Civil society organisations in Cross River State, in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), have carried out a cleanup and sensitisation exercise at Marian Market and adjoining areas in Calabar.
The initiative, organised by the state government with support from civil society groups and other stakeholders, targeted traders, business owners and residents with messages on proper waste management and environmental hygiene.
The exercise comes amid growing concern over indiscriminate waste disposal and its impact on public health and the environment.
Founder of the Boki Biodiversity Conservation Foundation, Isaac Tawo Bessong, said markets remain major sources of urban waste, warning that poor disposal practices contribute to flooding, pollution and disease outbreaks.
“Our markets are among the largest generators of waste in urban areas. Poor management significantly drives flooding, environmental pollution and the spread of diseases,” he said.
Chairman of the Civil Society Coalition for Environmental Justice and Forest Conservation, and Executive Director of GREEENCODE, Edem Edem, stressed that waste-related pollution poses serious health risks and weakens climate action efforts.
He noted that the campaign focused on practical steps, including waste sorting, proper bagging and use of designated disposal points. “If the air from refuse trucks is unsafe to breathe occasionally, imagine the impact on those exposed daily. It is dangerous to health,” he said.
Senior Special Assistant to Governor Bassey Otu on Environment and Waste Management, Magnus Ntui, decried indiscriminate dumping of waste across Calabar, urging sustained public awareness.
“We need continuous sensitisation so people understand the consequences of improper waste disposal and the importance of sustainability,” he said.
President of De New Calabar Leo Club, Bright Ebuka Nwokeocha, called for a culture of cleanliness among residents and stronger collaboration among civil society groups to achieve lasting impact.
NYSC SDG Desk Officer in the state, Blessing Bissong, said corps members remain committed to supporting government and non-governmental efforts to improve waste management.
“Almost every week, our CDS groups sensitise residents on cleaner living and proper waste disposal. We are encouraged by the state government’s efforts, including the cleanup of major dump sites in Calabar,” she said.
She added that the campaign aligns with broader efforts to promote sustainable environmental practices and improve public health across communities in the state.
