Safe Space Development Foundation

We commend the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection And Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) and the Akwa Ibom State Government for their prompt response in evacuating water and waste in the affected areas and for their ongoing sanitation efforts across the state. This swift action is a step in the right direction and contributes meaningfully to a cleaner environment.

We also commend The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) who collaborated with the Akwa Ibom State Emergency Management Agency (AKSEMA), the Nigerian Red Cross Society, Akwa Ibom State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (AKISEMSAS), the Ministries of Health, Environment and Works, as well as the Federal and State Fire Services to coordinate emergency response operations following heavy rainfall that triggered flash floods and severe flooding in parts of Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

However, while we appreciate these responsive actions, we must emphasize that being proactive is far better than being reactive. We cannot afford to wait for disasters like the current devastating floods in Uyo before doing what is right and safe for our environment. Waste management, drain clearance, and proper environmental maintenance should be consistent, proactive, and sustained, not reactive measures triggered only when flooding occurs.

The recurring floods in several communities have shown us the heavy human and economic cost of delayed action. Blocked drainages, poor waste disposal, and inadequate planning continue to put lives and property at risk.

We therefore urge AKSEPWMA, the Ministry of Environment, and the State Government to intensify and institutionalize these efforts through:

- Regular and scheduled waste evacuation across all zones
- Comprehensive desilting of drainage systems before the peak rainy season
- Sustained public sensitization on responsible waste disposal.

Citizens also have a vital responsibility. We call on residents of Uyo and Akwa Ibom State to play their part by disposing of waste in designated places, avoiding dumping in drains and waterways, keeping their surroundings clean, and supporting government sanitation exercises.

Environmental protection and flood prevention must not be an afterthought. Let us move from reaction to prevention. The people of Uyo deserve a safer, cleaner, and more resilient environment every single day, not just after disaster strikes.

Together, let’s build a culture of proactive environmental responsibility.