Environmental Cleanliness in Nigeria: Key Findings from the 2024 The recently released State of the Nigerian Environment (STONE) report highlights that approximately 179 million Nigerians continue to live in unclean environments. While this marks a slight improvement compared to the 183 million recorded in 2023, it underscores the ongoing environmental challenges in the country. The report, issued by Mr. Ene Owoh, National Coordinator of Clean-Up Nigeria (CUN), provides insights into the nation’s environmental health and emphasizes the need for comprehensive policies that engage governments at all levels and citizens alike. “The 2024 zonal rating offers significant insights and is poised to improve Nigeria’s national cleanliness index rating,” Owoh remarked. Mixed Progress in Sanitation Efforts The report revealed both progress and setbacks in Nigeria’s sanitation landscape: “Nigeria’s sanitation status is both promising and challenging,” Owoh explained, stressing the importance of environmental cleanliness and sustainable waste management for long-term improvement. States Setting the Standard in Hygiene The findings highlighted that only seven states demonstrated commendable hygiene and sanitation practices. Leading the charge were Akwa Ibom and Abuja, ranked as the cleanest states in Nigeria by the annual Cleanliness Performance Index. “The zonal approach encourages interstate partnerships, enabling states to tackle unique challenges while working towards a cleaner and more sustainable Nigeria,” Owoh noted. Zonal Champions for 2024 The report also recognized six states as zonal cleanest state champions for 2024 based on their exceptional performance: Each champion received the STONE Green Crystal Award, highlighting their achievements in environmental sustainability. Healthy Competition for a Cleaner Nation Backed by six years of comprehensive data analysis (2018–2023), the zonal rating system fosters healthy competition and encourages states to adopt effective environmental strategies. By benchmarking performances and sharing best practices, this approach aims to: Owoh concluded by emphasizing the need for continuous improvement: “The zonal ratings create a blueprint for addressing weaknesses and leveraging strengths, ensuring a cleaner and healthier Nigeria for all.” READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
