PRESS REPORT
OKENE ENVIRONMENTAL & HEALTH AWARENESS PROGRAM
THEME:
“Say No to Waste Pollution: A Call for Responsible Waste Management for a Healthier Okene and Ebiraland.”
On the 5th of December, 2025, the Heal the World Foundation for Ecological Protection successfully conducted its Environmental and Health Awareness Program in Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria.
The program, held under the theme “Say No to Waste Pollution: A Call for Responsible Waste Management for a Healthier Okene and Ebiraland,” focused on strengthening public health consciousness, promoting responsible waste management, and encouraging community cooperation for a cleaner environment.
The event commenced at 8:00 AM at the Secretariat before participants proceeded through the Okene market to sensitize traders on environmental hygiene. The outreach addressed unsafe practices, guided traders on covering exposed food items, and educated them about the dangers of pests, contamination, and improper waste disposal. A full police escort accompanied the outreach, ensuring safety and smooth coordination.
The program was honored by the presence of distinguished personalities and representatives:
Chief Ogirima Jacob Anebe, representing his boss—the Honourable Member of the Federal House of Representatives for Okene/Adavi Constituency—who delivered an important message on government involvement in environmental development.
HRH Shaibu Ismaila Itopa, The Agasu of Omoye, attending on behalf of the Ohinoyi of Ebira Land as the Environmental Health Representative.
HRH Mahmud Anebe, The Ogaazi of Omoye, who accompanied the Agasu and emphasized the cultural responsibility of keeping Ebiraland clean.
Engr. Abdulrahman Gomina, a respected waste management expert, who offered technical insights on proper waste disposal, recycling practices, and environmental sustainability.
Hajia Barikisu, former Environmental Health Head in Okene, who emphasized the importance of continuous sensitization to prevent environmental-related diseases.
Hajia Rikya Sani, Head of Department (HOD), Environmental Health, Okene, present with her full team to support, coordinate, and supervise the environmental activities.
Mr. Jibril, the current Environmental Officer in Okene, who, along with his team, contributed to ensuring proper environmental compliance and community guidance during the outreach.
Comrade Ahmed Saka Bachido, President General of the Ebira Youth Congress (EYC), who played a crucial role in youth mobilization and community engagement.
The event also featured creative and captivating skit performers, known for their symbolic costume style using tires and environmental-themed props. Their presence added color, energy, and public engagement to the movement, attracting attention throughout the market sensitization.
Additionally, members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) participated actively, demonstrating the importance of youth involvement in environmental protection and public health initiatives.
The program received extensive media coverage, with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), several radio stations, and other media outlets documenting the activities and giving them wide publicity across Ebiraland and Kogi State.
Community response was highly positive, with market women and residents acknowledging the immediate impact of the outreach. Many expressed gratitude for the sensitization and called for increased government involvement to sustain the momentum against waste pollution.
Special appreciation goes to the Local Government Chairman, Hon. Nuhu Ahmed Enesi, whose support contributed greatly to the smooth execution of the program.
The event was convened by the Heal the World Foundation for Ecological Protection, led by its President, Mr. Jerry Beckham Azeez Adinoyi, who expressed deep gratitude to all dignitaries, security agencies, traditional institutions, media houses, volunteers, and community members. He reaffirmed the Foundation’s dedication to promoting environmental health, community empowerment, and sustainable ecological protection throughout Kogi State and Nigeria.
Overall, the program was colorful, impactful, and well-coordinated—marking a significant milestone in the collective effort toward a cleaner, safer, and healthier Okene and Ebiraland.
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