C’River Environment Commissioner Applauds Sanitation Compliance, Decries Poor Hygiene at UNICAL
By Hannah Arikpo
The Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi, has commended residents of the state for their growing compliance with the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, especially as the Governor Bassey Otu-led administration marks its second anniversary. However, the Commissioner expressed dismay over the poor sanitary conditions observed at the University of Calabar (UNICAL).
Speaking shortly after monitoring the May 2025 sanitation exercise, Osogi praised both indigenes and non-indigenes for embracing the sanitation culture since its reintroduction. “Sanitation has come to stay in Cross River State. Compliance keeps improving. We initially recorded about 70% participation, but we are now at 90%. The people are cooperating, and we are impressed,” he stated.
Despite this progress, the Commissioner lamented the unhygienic environment at the University of Calabar, describing it as “appalling.” He noted the presence of uncleared grasses, clogged drainages, scattered refuse, and general untidiness around the campus and hostels.
“We are visiting the University of Calabar for the second time this year to advocate for a culture of cleanliness, especially as this institution offers environmental studies. It’s unfortunate that UNICAL is not meeting expectations. The students are not doing enough. We will engage with the school authorities to identify areas where the state government can intervene and help ensure a clean, green, and serene campus,” Osogi explained.
On preparations for the upcoming World Environment Day, the Commissioner assured that Cross River is poised to surpass its 2024 achievement, where it was ranked best-performing state in environmental compliance nationwide. “This year, we are targeting the top spot not just in Nigeria, but possibly in West Africa or beyond,” he said confidently.
Osogi also expressed gratitude to God and the media for his recent recognition as the third best-performing Commissioner in Cross River State by an online media assessment.
Regarding waste management, he revealed that the distribution of NDDC-supplied waste bins is ongoing and encouraged interested residents to apply for theirs. “Members of the public can apply to receive these bins. The idea is to expand access to proper waste disposal facilities across the state,” he added.
The sanitation monitoring team included the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Directors, and key environment stakeholders.
