Ifiok Itiaba
The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly has taken a significant step towards strengthening the state’s environmental protection framework, as the House Committee on Environment convened a public hearing on Monday to deliberate on three critical bills aimed at regulating the scrap metal business, prohibiting single-use plastics, and establishing a climate change action framework.
Speaking at the hearing, the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment and member representing Okobo State Constituency, Hon. Bassey Pius Bassey, disclosed that the Scrap Metal Dealers Regulation Bill was designed to introduce accountability and transparency into the sector, following concerns linking some dealer activities to the vandalism of public infrastructure.
“The proposed law aims to establish a regulatory framework to protect government assets while enabling legitimate operators to function within legal bounds,” Hon. Bassey stated.
The Committee Chairman also addressed the Polystyrene and Single-Use Plastics Prohibition Bill, highlighting its objective of tackling a pressing environmental challenge. He noted that improper disposal of these materials had led to significant pollution, clogging drainage systems, contaminating water bodies, endangering wildlife, and posing public health risks.
“The bill seeks to promote sustainable packaging alternatives and improve waste management,” he added.
On the Climate Change Bill, Hon. Bassey explained its purpose was to position Akwa Ibom as a proactive participant in global climate action by integrating climate considerations into governance and establishing the Akwa Ibom State Council on Climate Change.
“The bill aims to enhance institutional coordination, foster climate resilience, and encourage green investments for future generations,” he said.
Hon. Bassey further noted that these legislative efforts aligned with the development priorities of Governor Umo Eno’s administration, particularly the ARISE Agenda’s focus on sustainable development and environmental protection. He commended the Governor for his supportive policies and lauded the bill sponsors for their commitment to safeguarding the environment.
In his keynote address, the Commissioner for Environment, Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong, reiterated the ministry’s dedication to strengthening environmental governance through better enforcement, public awareness, and strategic partnerships. He described the environment as a critical asset that sustains livelihoods and biodiversity but acknowledged the significant threats it faces from climate change, pollution, deforestation, and rapid urbanisation, which have direct consequences for public health and economic well-being.
Declaring the hearing open, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, represented by member representing Mbo State Constituency, Rt. Hon Effiong Johnson, reaffirmed that public hearings were a cornerstone of the democratic process, providing a vital platform for gathering citizen feedback on issues of political, social, economic, and administrative importance before critical legislative decisions were made.
Speaker Otong explained that the hearing embodied democratic principles by allowing the people of Akwa Ibom and key stakeholders to actively participate in shaping laws that would guide the state toward greater peace, environmental sustainability, and prosperity. He assured that the content of the bills would be thoroughly examined during the session, noting that they reflect the forward-thinking vision of the 8th Assembly and its dedication to its legislative mandate.
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