The Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, passed a resolution urging the state government to partner with the private sector to establish waste recycling plants across the state.
The resolution was sequel to a motion by Mr. Ukpong Akpabio, member representing Essien Udim state constituency.
The motion was seconded by Mr. Eric Akpan, member representing Nsit Ibom state constituency, with overwhelming support from lawmakers.
Akpabio, in the motion titled, “Waste to Wealth: Need to Partner with the Private Sector to Establish a Recycling Plant in the State”, said that there was urgent need to convert the huge waste generated daily in the state to wealth.
The lawmaker added that the resolution when adopted and implemented would create jobs to the teeming youth and save the state of worsening flooding and environmental degradation.
”Proper waste management is critical to public health and environmental sustainability.
”Recycling offers significant advantages over landfills, which pose risks through greenhouse gas emissions, soil and water contamination, and the release of toxic substances to surrounding communities,” Akpabio said.
He added that waste recycling had become a major economic opportunity yet to be tapped.
According to him, the influx of scavengers into the state in search of recyclable materials such as plastic bottles, cartons and scrap metals often transported to other states for processing, underscores the economic potential of establishing recycling plants within Akwa Ibom.
”Having recycling facilities in the state would minimise environmental and health risks associated with landfills, stimulate economic growth, generate revenue and create employment opportunities across the waste management value chain.
”“This will be in line with Gov. Umo Eno’s ‘ARISE Agenda’, particularly the Economic Consolidation and Expansion Blueprint which promotes Public-Private Partnerships in recycling,” he said.
Members who spoke in support of the motion described it as timely and beneficial, stressing that it would help to prevent pollution, conserve natural resources and create jobs.
They also added that the motion focuses on sustainable development and revenue generation in the state.
The Speaker, Mr. Udeme Otong, described the unanimous support of the bill as a people-oriented initiative with far-reaching benefits for the state.
Otong, therefore, directed the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Nsikakabasi Orok, to communicate the resolutions of the House to the governor for necessary action.
By Isaiah Eka